Editorialist A. Barton Hinkle wrote an interesting commentary on yesterday’s Richmond Times-Dispatch on what gays and lesbians have to be thankful for, despite political setbacks.

Understandably, the gay community might be tempted to think November represented two giant steps backward for equality. But that might be taking too dark a view.

For one thing, McDonnell’s election does not necessarily represent a radical change at the Executive Mansion. During the 2005 campaign, Gov. Tim Kaine said “gays and lesbians should be protected from discrimination.” But Kaine — like McDonnell, a devout Catholic— also opposed same-sex marriage, civil unions, and adoption by gay couples.

Read the entire article here.