HAWAII: Governor Nominates Openly Gay Woman To State Supreme Court

Hawaii Gov. Neil Abercrombie has nominated an openly gay woman to the state Supreme Court. Sabrina McKenna, 53, has spent the last 17 years as a family court judge.

The governor said Tuesday that McKenna’s appointment had everything to do with her intelligence, temperament and legal knowledge and nothing to do with her sexuality. McKenna said she believes her sexual orientation is important to talk about. “I think the reason I am willing to have this interview is that I want the young people to know that it doesn't matter who you are,” McKenna said. McKenna's three children and partner Denise Yamashiro were in the governor’s office Tuesday as the governor nominated to the state’s highest court. “I don't think I ever would have imagined achieving this kind of honor in my life,” McKenna told reporters.

McKenna's confirmation hearing will coincide with the just-launched effort to pass civil unions in Hawaii, but legislators contacted for the above-linked story say that issue will not effect their assessment of her candidacy.

(Tipped by JMG reader Rick)