Conflict of Interest: After Lobbying for Gay Rights on MSNBC, Contessa Brewer to Speak at LGBT Event

MSNBC's Contessa Brewer, who on Monday argued that overturning Don't Ask, Don't Tell is a "civil rights issue," will appear at a July 24 fundraiser in Kentucky to support gay rights in the state.

According to a press release: "As the evening’s featured guest, MSNBC’s Brewer, who has several family ties to Kentucky, will speak on the need for a statewide anti-discrimination Fairness law in the Commonwealth from a national news perspective."

On Monday's News Live, Brewer implored, "My big question today: Why aren't more American leaders itching for a fight on gay rights?" She also said of ending Don't Ask, Don't Tell, "Is it time for our American leaders to stand up for what's right and no matter what public opinion polls say to have the leadership and the courage to take a stand on it?"

At no time did Brewer mention her speaking engagement or her conflict of interest. According to the Courier-Journal, last year's "Fairness Over Louisville" raised $10,000 for gay rights.

Brewer has previously made her opinion known on gay issues. On May 12, 2009, she Tweeted this about the then-Miss California, Carrie Prejean:

The Donald announces at 11am whether Miss California gets to keep her crown, though she hates gay marriage but likes to take her shirt off.

[Emphasis added].

This type of conflict of interest certainly isn't new for journalists. In 2009, former CBS anchor Dan Rather appeared at a $200 a person fundraiser for the hard-left Nation magazine.