Metro Weekly

WATCH: Maryland governor candidate airs first campaign ad to feature a same-sex kiss

Richard Madaleno, Maryland's first openly gay state senator, kisses his husband in his gubernatorial campaign ad

Madaleno (left) kissing his husband Mark — Photo: Richard Madaleno / YouTube

A Democratic candidate in Maryland’s gubernatorial race has apparently made history by airing the first same-sex kiss in a campaign ad.

Maryland state Senator Richard Madaleno‘s ad showcases his track record proving he will “stand up to Trump,” and lists his various actions that have gone against the President’s agenda.

“I’m running for governor to deliver progressive results and to stand up to Donald Trump,” Madaleno says in his ad. “Here are a few of the things that I’ve done that already infuriate him.”

Madaleno goes on to list a bill he co-sponsored banning assault weapons, as well as his support for public schools, before asking, “What’s the number one way I piss off Donald Trump and the Republicans?” Madaleno then kisses his husband, Mark, on the lips.

“Take that, Trump,” he says into the camera, while sitting with his husband and two children.

The ad first aired on Fox and Friends Thursday, which has been cited as President Trump’s “favorite show.” Madaleno, who is already the state’s first openly gay member of the General Assembly, would be Maryland’s first openly gay governor if elected.

The Washington Post reported on Tuesday that Madaleno is currently fourth in the polls to become the Democratic candidate, while Ben Jealous is in the lead.

Watch Madaleno’s ad below:

Support Metro Weekly’s Journalism

These are challenging times for news organizations. And yet it’s crucial we stay active and provide vital resources and information to both our local readers and the world. So won’t you please take a moment and consider supporting Metro Weekly with a membership? For as little as $5 a month, you can help ensure Metro Weekly magazine and MetroWeekly.com remain free, viable resources as we provide the best, most diverse, culturally-resonant LGBTQ coverage in both the D.C. region and around the world. Memberships come with exclusive perks and discounts, your own personal digital delivery of each week’s magazine (and an archive), access to our Member's Lounge when it launches this fall, and exclusive members-only items like Metro Weekly Membership Mugs and Tote Bags! Check out all our membership levels here and please join us today!