Widely seen as the first time a Republican candidate for president has talked to the LGBT press, Sen. John McCain agreed to an interview with the Washington Blade and in his answers actively sought the vote of lesbian and gay voters.

McCain addressed his positions on a number of issues: same-sex marriage, condoms, hate crimes, and employment discrimination against LGBT Americans. His positions? The president doesn’t deal with those issues in a federalist government.

Blade: What is your advice to gay rights activists as to what they should pursue and realistically expect to pass in 2009 with regard to the issues listed above?

McCain: My advice to all Americans is that it is time we came together to work in a bipartisan fashion to find real solutions to the challenges facing our country. I will be the President for all Americans — and will challenge every American to work with me to put our country first.

Blade: Will you support the Employment Non-Discrimination Act if elected president?

McCain: Gay and lesbian people should not face discrimination in the workplace. I’ve always practiced that in my hiring. I select the best people, regardless of their sexual orientation. I support the concept of non-discrimination in hiring for gay and lesbian people.

However, we need to make sure legislation doesn’t lead to a flood of frivolous lawsuits or infringe on religious institutions. What I can say now is I will give careful consideration to any legislation that reaches my desk, and confer with Congress before making decisions.

Blade: Do you foresee a day when the federal government will recognize civil unions or domestic partnerships performed by states?

McCain: I honestly don’t know.