Sure, sure. There’s plenty to vote for on Tuesday what with the pick for president and some LGBT candidates in metro Atlanta races. But more important is what happens after the polls close and what each election watch party says about you.
The choice for POTUS is pretty clear. It’s our equality, stupid. There’s also five gay candidates running across Georgia, including lesbian incumbent state Rep. Simone Bell facing Republican opposition. There’s also Brad Ploeger’s Libertarin bid for the Public Service Commission, Tim Riley’s effort to win a state Senate seat and Timothy Swiney’s hope to become Gwinnett’s first gay state rep. In north Georgia, Gary Harrell wants to take a seat on the Floyd County Commission.
So yes, the vote thing is important. Two Atlanta lesbians sing so (video above) and so does a gender-bending gay bestie to "Real Housewives of Atlanta."
But as the ballots are counted, there’s a handful of watch parties so you can cheer on the winners, or drown your sorrows if your picks don’t come out on top. What’s the right fit for you among the four parties on Tuesday? We’ll help decipher.
Political wonks (with an appetite)
The Rush Center, home to Georgia Equality and other LGBT groups, is hosting its Election Night Watch Party. It’ll be on the big screen and expect lots of wonkish chatter. That’s what Georgia Equality and its allies do best – read the political tea leaves and map a strategy for how progressive LGBT voters can survive in a political red meat sorta state.
But they won’t do it on an empty stomach. While the watch party is free, you can grab a tasty dinner at gay-owned Radial Café before the event. That’s not free but a portion of the dinner proceeds benefit Georgia Equality. You need a reservation.
Drinking Games
You’ve got your favorite Election Night Drinking Game all ready to go. Where to put it in play? With $2 Fireball and Jager shorties at My Sister’s Room. The lesbian hotspot in East Atlanta hosts its Super Tuesday at MSR. With nine flat screens, a pool table and a patio, this is the place to get serious about your political party(ing).
Serious and buttoned up
Atlanta supporters of the Human Rights Campaign bring you the biggest and gayest black-tie fundraising gala each May. Dress down on Tuesday for HRC Election Watch – it’s tacos, after all – though this party’s politics will still be serious and national. Expect chatter about the POTUS vote, the D.C. political scene and the four states where gay marriage is also on the ballot.
Party for the People
Amsterdam Atlanta’s appeal is that it’s for the everyday gay. They host the largest and most unpretentious New Year’s Party, so expect that same Joe Six Pack approach to its Presidential Watch Party. Pool tables, game room and enough TVs to make a Best Buy jealous.
No teetotalers wanted
Vote quick and then hit the Election Bash & Watch Party at XS Ultra Lounge. Why? This event offers an open bar for the first hour, then the tab for the drinking game is yours to deal with.
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