Openly gay judge seeks election in Philadelphia

Overshadowed by previous elections, Tuesday's primary remains pivotal. The headliners on the ballot are candidates for city comptroller and district attorney, but openly gay Judge Dan Anders' campaign to seek a 10 year term on the bench could send a powerful message far beyond Philadelphia.

Anders currently serves in the Family Court Division of the Court of Common Pleas of Philadelphia. Governor Ed Rendell appointed him to the bench in 2007 to fill a vacancy after Judge James J. Fitzgerald, III, was appointed to the state Supreme Court. Anders first sought office in 2007, but his appointment made him the city's first openly gay judge.

Anders, who has heard more than 5,000 cases involving Philadelphia's at-risk and neglected children, seeks both the Democratic and Republican nominations.

"In 2007 we were electing a mayor, and people were excited to vote," Anders told EDGE in a recent interview. "This is a less exciting election with no high profile race. We could have as few as 10 or 13 percent turn out to vote, and even fewer then that will vote for judge. Maybe only 60 percent of them are going to stay in the booth long enough to vote for their judges of choice"

Along with the challenges of long days and nights meeting his supporters, Anders noted the recession has had an impact on his ability to raise money.

"It is much more difficult fundraising environment," he said. "I've been lucky to still have excellent support in the LGBT community and beyond."

Anders, a former litigator with the Philadelphia office of Pepper Hamilton LLP, previously received a "recommended" rating from the Philadelphia Bar Association. The Pennsylvania Bar Association recognized Anders in 2004 with its Pro Bono Service Award. He has also provided free legal advice and counsel to various local organizations and individuals.

Along with his duties on the bench, Anders has also served as a nuisance court judge. He said presiding over a police district and addressing quality of life crimes had a tremendous impact.

"I think that is important for judges to see how their decisions impact people," Anders said. "You need that connection with the communities, with all communities--across the city."

Anders has incorporated this thinking into his campaign. While an openly candidate, he has actively sought to work with straight allies throughout the city.

"In the last campaign, I had a lot of support from the LGBT community and from the straight-allied community, but being an incumbent judge, people have seen me on the bench." Anders said. "I've gotten broader support. I have every labor union supporting me that I have asked for an endorsement. Anyone I have asked for support has given it very whole-heartedly."

He further stressed he feels his sexual orientation should not become an issue in the campaign.

"In some ways it is a big deal and in other ways it is not, [but] it doesn't impact how I reach a decision," Anders said. "I base each decision upon the law and the facts. There have been LGBT kids who appear in front of me, and because of who I am--and that I am very aware of organizations like The Attic and COLOURS, it gives me greater credibility for the children. They know I care. I know their perspective."

That said, Anders added he feels LGBT Philadelphians remain crucial.

"In terms of the LGBT community, people are more excited then before," he said. "I hope that translate into votes."