WASHINGTON - Joe Solmonese, president of the Human Rights Campaign, released the following statement today in response to the appointment of Interim President Patrick Sammon to become the new head of the Log Cabin Republicans.

"I want to congratulate Patrick on his selection as president of the Log Cabin Republicans," said Solmonese. "During his time as interim president of Log Cabin Republicans and previously as vice president of the Liberty Education Forum, Patrick has established a reputation as a dedicated advocate and valued partner in our struggle for equality. We look forward to continuing a great relationship with Patrick. As we enter a new session of Congress, it will be vital to seek out bipartisan support for our community's top legislative agenda items and Patrick's leadership will be essential to those efforts."

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