Jean O'Leary

I've been a very effective leader in the gay rights movement, though at times I've been controversial.

If Carter had been there when the AIDS crisis came up, it would have been a whole different story. It could have been treated like a legitimate disease.

I think George Bush is one of the most duplicitous presidents we've ever had.

The Constitution of the United States allows us to change; I don't have a problem with that.

When you first come into Parliament, it's a daunting place because you feel you've so much to learn. Once you've been re-elected, you feel much more confident. It just gives you a bit of a boost.

Well, I actually wrote her a letter a couple of days ago congratulating her. The tone I tried to convey in the letter is, look, you are a part of a great American historical process.