Newt Gingrich To Gay Iowan: Vote For Obama

Republican presidential candidate Newt Gingrich had an exchange with a gay voter Tuesday in Oskaloosa, Iowa that ended with the former House speaker telling him to vote for President Barack Obama if gay marriage was the most important issue to him.

Scott Arnold, an adjunct professor of writing at William Penn University who is a Democrat, asked how Gingrich plans to engage gay Americans.

(Video above via CBS News.)

"I think for those for whom the only issue that really matters is the definition of marriage I won't get their support, and I accept that that's a reality. On the other hand, for those for whom it's not the central issue in their life--if they care about job creation, if they care about national security, if they care about a better future for the country at large, then I think I'll get their support."

"So what if it is the biggest issue?" asked Arnold.

"Then I won't get their support," he replied.

Arnold continued to press Gingrich. "Well if that's the most important issue for you then you should be for Obama," said Gingrich. "That's perfectly legitimate."

"I am, but thank you," replied Arnold, who proceeded to shake Gingrich's hand.

At another campaign stop in Iowa Tuesday, a voter called Gingrich a "f***ing a**hole."