Blog threat as Schrock quits seat
By Jonathan E. Kaplan
The blogger who triggered yesterday’s resignation of Rep. Ed Schrock (R-Va.) by spreading rumors that he is gay promised “there’s more to come.”
The gossip first surfaced two weeks ago on a Washington, D.C.-based Web log, or blog, Blogactive.com. The site links to an audio recording that it claims is Schrock calling into the MegaMates/Megaphone Line, a telephone service that men can use to meet other men.
After the GOP push to ban gay marriages, Blogactive.com began “outing” political aides and has since targeted lawmakers who voted for legislation on the issue. Schrock was one of 233 lawmakers who this year supported the Marriage Protection Act, which would block federal courts from considering constitutional issues arising from gay-marriage cases.
Mike Rogers, the blogger who is promising more embarrassing revelations, said an anonymous source gave him the audiotape. “[We target] people who say they are Republicans and then use sexual orientation to stay in power.”
Schrock, a 63-year-old second-term lawmaker and retired U.S. Navy captain, did not respond to the allegations specifically, and his office could not be reached for comment last night. Schrock, a cancer survivor, is married and has one son.
In a press release, Schrock said: “After much thought and prayer, I have come to the realization that these allegations will not allow my campaign to focus on the real issues facing our nation and region. Therefore … I am stepping aside and will no longer be the Republican nominee for Congress in Virginia’s Second Congressional District.
“Words cannot express the gratitude I have for all of the people who have entrusted me to be their representative and have shown unwavering support. Together, we have accomplished so much for the people of Hampton Roads and the Eastern Shore.”
While most of Virginia’s political establishment learned about Schrock’s resignation yesterday, Rep. Tom Davis (R-Va.) told The Hill he and Schrock discussed his pending retirement a month ago.
Attorney General Jerry Kilgore said, “I’m sad for Congressman Schrock. It’s certainly was a surprise to me. I’m glad he’s had the courage to say to Republicans in Virginia to move on.”
Pam Brown, another delegate, said: “It’s a big surprise. I’m flabbergasted, and it’s a shame to lose him.”
Bill Cleveland, a Capitol police officer stationed in the Cannon Building near Schrock’s office, said, “He is a very effective congressman. I hope he would change his mind.”
Not all delegates were disappointed. “I’m a conservative Christian, and the gay lifestyle is the wrong lifestyle,” said Fred Gerald, a delegate from southern Virginia. “It does not set a very good example for our young people, and it lowers the values in America having gay people in government.”
Twelve members of the Virginia Republican committee will meet tonight to consider two candidates who have expressed interest in replacing Schrock in his solidly Republican district. The winner will need the votes of seven of the 12 members, and the results must be certified by Friday to place the winner’s name on the ballot.
Schrock won in 2000 with 52 percent of the vote, and, in 2002, he did not face a serious challenge.
David Ashe, Schrock’s Democratic opponent, was floored by the resignation. He told The Virginian-Pilot: “Wow. I had not heard that. That's really something.”
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