As the 2008 Presidential race starts to heat up, it's important to look at where all the candidates stand on issues important to the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) community. I will be putting up posts about all the candidates, but today I start with Hillary Clinton.

All the 2008 candidates have a record of supporting the LGBT community, and Hillary Clinton is no exception. You can check out a video of her recent speech to the Human Rights Campaign to get a feel for yourself.

Hillary is on record in support of the three issues that are most likely to come into play in the next year: The Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA), Hate Crimes Legislation, and Ending the Military Ban on LGBT soldiers. I haven't seen, however, anything about whether or not Hillary supports a transgender-inclusive ENDA. So if anybody knows about this - please let me know.

On the issue of Marriage Equality, Clinton's answers have been painfully nuanced, especially when addressing her New York constitutents, who would like to see her be a leader on this issue. She has said, however, that she suports equal benefits and responsibilities for same sex coules.

For ongoing coverage of Hillary Clinton on LGBT issues in 2008, visit www.outforhillary.org.