WASHINGTON - Today the Human Rights Campaign - the nation's largest lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) civil rights organization - announced the endorsement of Illinois Treasurer Alexi Giannoulias running for the U.S. Senate. Giannoulias has a stellar record on LGBT equality in contrast to his Republican opponent Rep. Mark Kirk who voted against repeal of the discriminatory "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" law last night in the U.S. House.

"Alexi Giannoulias is the progressive leader Illinois needs," said HRC President Joe Solmonese. "He will be a strong advocate in the U.S. Senate to ensure that all of his constituents are accepted and welcomed as part of the American family,"

"When my children look back at our generation, I want them to be proud that we stood up for the values that make America so great: fairness, equality, and opportunity for everyone, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity," said Giannoulias. "As the next Senator from the great State of Illinois, I will lead the fight for equality - for marriage equality, for an end to DOMA, for employment non-discrimination, and for immigration reform that treats same-sex couples fairly."

Giannoulias is a strident supporter of LGBT equality - including supporting marriage equality, repeal of the Defense of Marriage Act, repeal of "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" and supporting an inclusive Employment Non-Discrimination Act. Although his opponent Rep. Mark Kirk has voted favorably on some LGBT issues in the past, last night he cast a vote to retain the military's failed ban on openly lesbian and gay service members.

"While many lawmakers stood on the right side of history in voting to end 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell,' Rep. Kirk voted to maintain discrimination that hurts our national security. Thankfully voters have a better choice in Alexi Giannoulias who will always stand up for equality," added Solmonese.

The Human Rights Campaign is America's largest civil rights organization working to achieve lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender equality. By inspiring and engaging all Americans, HRC strives to end discrimination against LGBT citizens and realize a nation that achieves fundamental fairness and equality for all.