Jeff Trammell.

In September, Jeff Trammell, 55, became the first out trustee of Virginia's College of William and Mary in its 312 years. It's another accomplishment for the respected D.C. politico and businessman who shares a home with his partner of 28 years.

What does it mean to you to be named to this position?

I feel very honored. I have tremendous respect for the college's tradition, which includes alumni like Thomas Jefferson and some of our other great early thinkers about basic rights for all Americans.

You served as senior LGBT issues adviser to Al Gore in 2000 and John Kerry in 2004. Working with any 2008 candidates?

No, but I have great respect for all of those who are thinking about running. Obviously, in my work in Virginia I've gotten to know Governor Warner well. I don't know if he will run or not. but he's someone who articulates a message about how Democrats can win in red states.

What are the most important LGBT issues for candidates to consider?

[Everything] from taxes and pensions to hospitalization visitation rights--all the elements of civil marriage. Another very important issue is "don't ask, don't tell." Obviously the public opinion is changing on that, as well it should. The Iraq war has brought it all home to us.