Utah Libertarians Oppose Anti-Gay Standard Bearer

When “SUPERDELL” Dell Schanze filed to run for Governor of Utah as a Libertarian, it gave that party their highest profile candidate in years.  And yes, he’s requested his name appear on the ballot preceded with:  “SUPERDELL.” 

Schanze was a computer store owner who was known for loud commercials.  However, several years ago he closed up shop after allegations of harassment, including anti-gay employment policies, were leveled against him.  He was also charged (for which he was later found not guilty) of brandishing a firearm in an altercation. 

Now it looks like, regardless of his high profile, the Libertarians don’t want him.  One of the few Libertarians successfully elected to office is former Big Water, Utah Mayor Willy Marshall – who served as Mayor as an openly-gay man.  Former Mayor Marshall and other Utah Libertarians are trying to certify “None of the Above” as the party’s nominee for Governor, instead of Schanze.  They say this is in a large part due to Schanze’s anti-gay views. 

The Salt Lake City Weekly chronicled this dispute this week.  When the Libertarians meet on April 19 to determine their party’s nominee, GLAAD will be watching to see how the media reports on Schanze, Mayor Marshall and the future of gay inclusiveness in the Utah Libertarian Party.

Paul Karr is the Director of Media Field Strategy