Financial

Presidential hopefuls not showing love to LGBTQ media

Few ad buys in niche outlets in 2020 campaign

Published

5 years ago

March 12, 2020

political advertisement, gay news, Washington Blade — This ad for Mike Bloomberg’s failed campaign appeared in Gay City News.

When it comes to covering the concerns of our community, nobody does it better than LGBTQ print and digital media outlets. Readers hungry for in-depth journalism know the value of hearing it from the horse’s mouth—so why is that lost on the lion’s share of donkeys and elephants?

“I personally have reached out to Buttigieg, Biden, Sanders, Warren, and Bloomberg, with no response from anyone about advertising,” said Justin Wyse, sales manager for South Florida Gay News, in a Feb. 23 email (before Buttigieg, the gay former mayor of South Bend, Ind., suspended his campaign). Democratic presidential hopefuls may be rebuffing Wyse’s overtures, but PACs sometimes have the paper’s back: The Log Cabin Republicans, he notes, planned to advertise in the two issues prior to Florida’s March 17 primary.

Still, not a single candidate has advertised with the paper in past presidential election cycles, says Wyse. “They all say they support our community, but do they? They sure don’t show it, by their silence.”

That silence, if broken, could speak volumes, says Rivendell Media president and CEO Todd Evans. “For a million dollars, you could completely saturate the LGBTQ media market. For $100,000, you will get the back cover in most gay print publications in top U.S. markets,” notes Evans, who places advertisements for the National LGBT Media Association—whose 12 members have a combined weekly print and online reach of approximately 500,000. (The Washington Blade and Los Angeles Blade are members.)

Of that niche market, says activist and Philadelphia Gay News publisher Mark Segal, “One of the things we share with the African-American and Latino community is, LGBTQ print is king. When candidates are trying to get to a community, they go in all manners—mailings, targeted social media. So when you go after our votes,” says Segal, of LGBTQs, “part of that is advertising.”

Over the years, says Evans, “We have compiled campaigns and reach-outs to the DNC. They’ve asked for it, even. But they’ve never done anything on a national scale, to my knowledge, ever… Let’s go back to the reason companies target LGBTQs: Primarily, for trend-setting. Why wouldn’t you want to carry that into getting yourself more visibility within our community?”

In anticipation of Pennsylvania’s April 28 primary, Segal notes that despite early outreach to Democrats with designs on the White House, “What they all say is, ‘Get back to us on April 1.’ ” (Sanders and Clinton did advertise with the paper in 2016; the former, with a mainstream ad, and the latter, with one designed for LGBTQ+ readers.)

Using the National LGBT Media Association as his calling card, this reporter requested comment from the RNC, DNC, and Democratic candidates. Only two campaigns responded.

Touting their track record of “locking arms and marching during Pride” as well as attending the National LGBTQ Task Force’s Creating Change Conference and RuPaul’s Drag Con, “Team Warren knows the importance of meeting LGBTQ+ voters where they are,” said Daniel Lander, Elizabeth Warren’s National Director for LGBTQ+ Outreach, in a Feb. 24 email.

This article’s deadline forced us to call off the search for answers to our reply, in which we asked if the Warren campaign had taken its message directly to the LGBTQ, Hispanic, or African-American press, via paid advertising.

Bloomberg campaign rep Natalie Johnson assured, in a Feb. 20 email, “We have great team members that can speak to this topic.” But after a phone call at her behest, “to get a better sense of the interview,” it was radio silence after we declined to send a list of questions prior to securing an interview.

Past NYC mayor and present billionaire Michael Bloomberg, who dropped out of the race on March 4 after a dismal Super Tuesday showing, did indeed purchased a presence in the LGBTQ press, albeit a general interest ad that appeared as part of a company-wide buy with Schneps Media, whose properties include NYC’s Gay City News (GCN), a member of the National LGBT Media Association.

When we spoke with GCN founding editor-in-chief and associate publisher Paul Schindler, he noted the issue that hit the streets on Jan. 30 had a back page ad from Bloomberg.

“In his mayoral campaigns,” recalls Schindler, of Bloomberg, “he blanketed our newspapers and our digital with ads. He so outspent his Democratic rivals, there was no competition.”

The Stonewall Democratic Club of NYC and Lambda Independent Democrats of Brooklyn “have endorsed Elizabeth Warren,” notes Schindler, “so if Warren remains viable by the time of the [April 28 NY Democratic] primary, I think there’s a decent shot those clubs would buy an ad, but not much more than two or three weeks before the primary.” (Those clubs, if advertising, won’t be bolstering Warren: The Massachusetts senator called it quits on March 5.)

There’s good reason, says Schindler, that candidates are absent from the local landscape until their time in the primary sun is at hand. “Unlike other consumer products, they are not ‘on sale’ everywhere at the same time… I want to make it very clear that I’m stepping aside from my role as editor, when I say I’m glad they’re spending their money where they are [in battleground states and pre-primary buys]. That’s not something smart for me to say, businesswise, but it’s a cold political fact.”

Even colder and considerably more calculated, is the quest to bypass ads altogether, by pricking up LGBTQ+ ears with a compelling sound bite.

“Candidates [in 2020] do seem to be a bit more reluctant to tap into niche markets by paying for media,” says T.J. Billard, a Ph.D. candidate at the USC Annenberg School for Communication & Journalism. “They tend to focus on the mainstream,” or rely on “earned media,” i.e., no-cost editorial coverage, as was the case numerous times, notes Billard, when Warren, “just in the course of talking about violence, mentioned transgender women of color. For a general audience, it doesn’t do much. But the fact that she said it is going to be news in the LGBTQ press. So by throwing that in, she’s able to assure a certain degree of visibility in the LGBTQ community that requires no [financial] investment.”

“I’ve seen the tone shift, now that we’re in a post-marriage equality era,” says public affairs and media professional Kenn Campbell, who served as a national advance associate on behalf of the Obama White House, the Office of Secretary Hillary Rodham Clinton, and Hillary for America. “Campaigns aren’t reaching out as early as they were, and they aren’t targeting the LGBT community as aggressively as I think they should be … I would hope DNC Chair Perez has a [general election] plan for that. But at this point, I haven’t seen any outreach effort.”

Scott Wazlowski, vice president of advertising for San Francisco’s Bay Area Reporter, was in talks with a presidential candidate when we spoke, but under “a fairly comprehensive” non-disclosure agreement. Wazlowski notes the paper’s “strong voting bloc” garners advertising from the city’s Department of Elections “prior to every election in the city and county,” as well as advertising from Congresswoman Nancy Pelosi, prior to annual Pride celebrations.

Even for a paper of BAR’s visibility, notes Wazlowski, “Reaching the right person who makes the decision on who buys media for anything other than a small local campaign is almost impossible.”

Of the LGBTQ press, “We are on the front lines, in terms of our local communities,” says Michael Yamashita, president and CEO of BAR Media Inc., and BAR publisher. “I don’t think campaigns really appreciate that direct and close relationship we have.”

Real Estate

Pride, patriotism, and prosperity

Real estate plays role in honoring servicemembers’ legacy

Published

5 days ago

May 25, 2025

Valerie Blake

(Photo by 1photo/Bigstock)

As the calendar turns to late May and early June, several powerful movements and celebrations converge in a profound and colorful tapestry of remembrance, Pride, and progress.

Memorial Day in the United States honors the sacrifices of military personnel who gave their lives in service. Simultaneously, WorldPride and Black Pride commemorate both the historical struggles and enduring strength of LGBTQ+ communities worldwide.

Though these observances may seem distinct, they share powerful commonalities — solemnity, resilience, and the pursuit of equity. When viewed through the lens of real estate and community development, their intersection reveals the critical importance of space, ownership, and inclusion.

Memorial Day is more than a barbecue, a long weekend, or the unofficial start of summer. It is a solemn remembrance of those who laid down their lives for the ideals of freedom and democracy. Many of these fallen heroes came from marginalized backgrounds, including a rainbow of LGBTQ+ Americans who served valiantly, often without recognition or equal rights at home.

LGBTQ+ service members have fought in silence for decades, only gaining the right to serve openly in recent years and then having that opportunity for some individuals snatched back simply because of who they are. Memorial Day is a chance not only to honor their service but also as a reminder of the injustices they endured.

Real estate plays a role in their legacy. For decades, returning veterans used the GI Bill to buy homes and build generational wealth; however, discriminatory practices like redlining and restrictive covenants denied Black veterans the same opportunities, contributing to the racial wealth gap that persists today. Similarly, LGBTQ+ veterans and their partners often faced housing discrimination with little legal recourse. These systemic barriers underscore how access to safe and equitable housing is part of the fight for justice.

Black Pride events emerged in response to racism within the broader LGBTQ+ movement, asserting that Black queer lives matter and deserve visibility. Held in cities across the globe, Black Pride is not just a festival — it is a political and cultural declaration. It amplifies voices at the intersection of race and sexuality, advocating for people who are disproportionately impacted by housing insecurity and gentrification.

Many urban neighborhoods that were once cultural havens for queer communities are being transformed by rising rents and redevelopment. While revitalization can bring economic opportunity, it must be done equitably, with safeguards in place to ensure that long-standing residents are not displaced. Real estate, in this context, becomes a tool for resistance and renewal.

WorldPride, a global event celebrating LGBTQ+ rights and visibility, is hosted by a different city every few years. It draws millions of participants, shines an international spotlight on LGBTQ+ issues, and highlights disparities in rights and protections worldwide. In countries where queer identities are criminalized, safe housing can be a matter of life and death.

Even in more progressive regions, LGBTQ+ individuals often face subtle yet persistent discrimination from landlords, real estate agents, and lending institutions. In the real estate industry, advocacy groups are working to increase representation, offer training, define ethical responsibilities, and advocate for inclusive policies to ensure housing is truly accessible to all.

The convergence of WorldPride with Memorial Day and Black Pride invites deeper reflection: What kind of world are we building in memory of those who came before? How can we ensure that freedom, the very principle so many fought and died for, includes the right to live openly and securely, regardless of race, gender, or sexuality?

The real estate industry has a unique role in shaping the future. From urban planning to homeownership policy, to income-based downpayment grants, it directly influences who has access to stability and opportunity.

Developers, policymakers, and community leaders must work together to address housing disparities. This includes funding affordable housing, protecting tenants from discrimination, and investing in communities that have been historically excluded. It also means respecting cultural legacies and ensuring that neighborhoods reflect the diversity of the people who live in them.

Memorial Day reminds us of the cost of freedom. International Pride events remind us that the fight for freedom is ongoing. As we honor the fallen, let us also honor the living – those who continue to fight for their right to exist, to love, and to call a place home. Whether waving a flag at a Pride parade, laying a wreath at a soldier’s grave, or signing a first-time homebuyer agreement, these moments are connected by the enduring belief that everyone deserves dignity, safety, and a place to belong.

Valerie M. Blake is a licensed Associate Broker in DC, MD & VA with RLAH @properties. Call or text her at (202) 246-8602, email her at DCHomeQuest.com, or follow her on Facebook at TheRealst8ofAffairs.

Real Estate

Tips for buying a house in Rehoboth Beach

And why it’s a great fit for the LGBTQ community

Published

2 weeks ago

May 18, 2025

Justin Noble

Rehoboth Beach, Del. (Washington Blade photo by Daniel Truitt)

If you’ve ever dreamed of owning a charming beach house where flip-flops are considered formalwear and sunsets are your daily entertainment, Rehoboth Beach, Del., might just be your dream come true. It’s not just a beautiful coastal town—it’s also a long celebrated safe haven and vibrant hub for the LGBTQ community. Let’s dive into why Rehoboth Beach is a fabulous choice and how to make a savvy beach house purchase.

Why Rehoboth Is a Vibe (especially for the LGBTQ community)

1. A Welcoming, Inclusive Community

Rehoboth Beach has been lovingly nicknamed the “Nation’s Summer Capital,” and it’s not just because of its proximity to D.C. For decades, Rehoboth has built a reputation as a warm, inclusive, and LGBTQ-friendly destination. From gay-owned businesses to LGBTQ events and nightlife, this is a town where you can truly be yourself.

2. Packed Social Calendar

Poodle Beach, the LGBTQ beach hangout just south of the boardwalk, is always buzzing in the summer. Events like Rehoboth Beach Bear Weekend, Women’s FEST, and CAMP Rehoboth’s myriad of social and wellness events bring people together all year round. That’s right—you’ll never be bored here unless you want to be.

3. Small Town Charm Meets Big City Culture

You get art galleries, drag brunches, live theater, eclectic cuisine, and adorable boutiques—basically everything your soul craves—without the chaos and crowds of major cities. It’s quaint but never boring. Think: Key West vibes with a Delaware zip code.

Tips for Buying Your Dream Beach House

1. Know Your Budget and Think Long Term. Beachfront and near-beach properties come at a premium. Expect to pay a bit more for proximity to the sand and ocean views.

2. Choose Your Neighborhood Wisely. Do you want to be walking distance from the action on the boardwalk? Or do you prefer something more secluded in areas like North Shores or Henlopen Acres?

3. Rental Potential. If you’re not living there full time, your beach house could work overtime as a vacation rental. Rehoboth Beach has a healthy short-term rental market, especially in peak summer. Often times LGBTQ travelers actively seek inclusive, affirming places to stay.

4. Weather the Weather. Like all coastal areas, Rehoboth comes with a side of salt air and occasional storms. Invest in a good home inspection, especially for older homes, and be prepared for the maintenance that comes with beachfront living (yes, that includes sand everywhere).

5. Work With a Local Real Estate Agent. Look for an agent who knows Rehoboth inside and out and understands the unique needs of LGBTQ buyers. This isn’t just a house — it’s your happy place. You want someone who sees that and says, “Let’s find your sanctuary.”

Buying a beach house in Rehoboth Beach isn’t just about real estate — it’s about finding a space that reflects your lifestyle, values, and need for both community and calm. Whether it becomes your full-time home, your weekend escape, or your Airbnb side hustle, Rehoboth welcomes you with open arms (and maybe a mimosa).

Want personalized tips on navigating the Rehoboth Beach real estate market? Let’s chat! I’ll bring the listings if you bring the sunscreen.

Justin Noble is a Realtor with The Burns & Noble Group with Sotheby’s International Realty, licensed in D.C., Maryland, and Delaware. Reach him at [email protected] or 202-234-3344.

Real Estate

Impact of federal gov’t RIF on D.C.’s rental market

A seismic economic change for local property owners

Published

3 weeks ago

May 11, 2025

Scott Bloom

President Trump’s plan to cut the federal workforce presents challenges to local landlords. (Washington Blade file photo by Michael Key)

In a move that could redefine the federal government workforce and reshape the economic fabric of Washington, D.C., President Donald Trump has announced his intentions to significantly reduce federal government spending as well as the number of people the federal government employs.

Calling the federal bureaucracy “bloated” and “out of control,” Trump has repeatedly expressed his desire to cut thousands of federal jobs. While these cuts align with his long-standing push to “drain the swamp,” they come with potential and real collateral damage, especially for landlords in the D.C. area who have relied on government employees as some of their most reliable and long-term tenants.

The potential reduction of thousands of jobs in a city built around government work is not just a political shift—it’s a seismic economic change for the city government as well as for local property owners who have invested in the predictability of a near-constant demand for workers in the federal government agencies, government contractors and the economic ecosystem they sustain.

For landlords, government workers have represented ideal tenants: strong income, long-term leases, and responsible rental histories. Now, that foundation is being shaken in a battle by the Administration against a workforce which is the backbone of the Washington area’s overall economy, and especially its rental market.

With uncertainty looming, landlords are left in a difficult position. If widespread layoffs come to fruition, rental vacancies could spike, rental prices would drop, and previously secure investment properties might become financial liabilities. The sudden shift forces landlords to consider their next moves: how to support tenants facing job losses, how to adapt to a changing market, and how to ensure their own financial stability amid the uncertainty.

For D.C. landlords, this isn’t just about policy shifts or budget cuts, it’s about economic livelihood. The challenge ahead isn’t about just reacting to change, but proactively preparing for it, ensuring they can weather the storm of political maneuvering.

Potential Consequences for D.C. Landlords

1. Increased Risk of Non-Payment of Rent
- Job losses may lead to late or missed rent payments
- As affected tenants struggle financially, they may ask to break their lease to live elsewhere or even move out of the region
- Eviction lawsuits may rise, leading to a long and expensive process for landlords, all while not being able to rent their property to paying tenants.

2. Higher Vacancy Rates

If many government employees leave the D.C. region in search of work elsewhere, the rental demand could decline significantly
Rental properties may sit empty longer, requiring landlords to lower rents to attract new tenants and creating even more financial loss

3. More Competition from Other Landlords

As many more units are vacant on the market, all competing for the same pool of potential tenants, older and smaller rentals, and those located further out from the core of the city will all struggle to find quality renters.
Landlords will need to offer other ways to attract and retain tenants, such as incentives, which could quickly overwhelm the finances of smaller landlords who cannot keep up.

Proactive Strategies for Landlords

To mitigate risks and ensure future rental success, landlords should consider these defensive measures:

1. Strengthen Tenant Relationships and Communication

Encourage tenants to communicate if they anticipate financial hardship due to job loss.
Work out temporary payment plans or partial payments to prevent full non-payment or eviction.
Provide guidance on rental assistance programs available in D.C.

2. Offer Flexible Lease Terms

Consider shorter-term leases than a full 12-month term to accommodate the needs of tenants who may be uncertain about their long-term employment status.
Offer lease renewals at the same rent amount to keep stable tenants and avoid turnover

3. Diversify Tenant Base

If a large portion of tenants are government workers, a landlord may want to market to a broader audience or professionals in private industries.
Advertise on platforms that cater to diverse tenant pools, including students and international workers.

4. Adjust Screening Criteria Thoughtfully

While it’s important to ensure financial stability, consider creditworthiness, assets, and rental history rather than just employment status.
Consider alternative income sources, like family members assisting, part-time work or freelance gigs.

5. Protect Cash Flow with Rent Guarantee Options

Explore rental insurance policies or rent guarantee services to cover losses in case of non-payment.
Consider co-signers or guarantors on leases for new tenants in vulnerable industries, just in case.

6. Adjust Rental Pricing to Stay Competitive

Monitor the D.C. rental market and adjust pricing accordingly to attract new tenants.
Consider offering move-in incentives as a way to stand out. Be creative! Sometimes things you can offer are different and may catch someone’s eye

Long-Term Planning for Rental Success

Build reserves to cover expenses during potential vacancies or rent shortfalls.
Invest in property upgrades to make rentals more attractive to a broader audience, such as young professionals or remote workers.
Consider diversifying property holdings to include areas that are less reliant on government employment.

By taking proactive steps, landlords can safeguard their investments while supporting tenants through economic uncertainty, ultimately leading to a more stable and resilient rental business.

Scott Bloom is owner and senior property manager at Columbia Property Management. For more information, visit ColumbiaPM.com.