Fred Karger

Fred S. Karger, born on January 31, 1950, is a notable American political consultant and a pioneering figure in the fight for gay rights. His career spans various roles, including that of an actor and a senior consultant for several presidential campaigns, notably for Presidents Ronald Reagan, George H. W. Bush, and Gerald Ford. Karger made history in 2012 when he became the first openly gay presidential candidate in a major political party, running for the Republican nomination.

With a rich background in political consulting, Karger was a partner at the Dolphin Group, a California-based campaign consulting firm, where he dedicated twenty-seven years of his career. His extensive experience includes involvement in nine presidential campaigns, showcasing his deep understanding of the political landscape.

After retiring from consulting, Karger shifted his focus to activism, particularly in the realm of gay rights. He has been vocal in his efforts to protect LGBTQ+ spaces, such as the gay bar The Boom, and has actively campaigned against organizations like the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and the National Organization for Marriage, which he believes undermine same-sex marriage laws in California.