LEDES 4: My Republican Journey

"Hello, my name is Dan Savage and I am the Republican Party in my neighborhood. I am the Republican Precinct Committee Officer for Precinct 1846 in the 43rd District. If you have any questions about the Republican Party, our platform, or any of our candidates, feel free to give me a call here at work.

You're probably wondering two things. First, if I'm serious. I am. Second, how a commie-pinko drag fag sex-advice columnist with a fourteen-year-old boyfriend (kidding) managed to find a home in the hate-mongering, gay-bashing Republican Party?"
(I found this Dan Savage article in the New Kings of Nonfiction, ed. Ira Glass)

This lede draws the reader in with a startling statement, followed by a direct address. Unfortunately, the statement is only startling if you are familiar with Savage Love. Savage's day job involves giving detailed, practical advice on how to enjoy sexual health and erotic fetishes. He is a famous not-republican. This article was originally published in Savage's stomping ground, the Stranger, so it is fair that he uses such a familiar voice. The tone is consistent with his reputation as an unapologetic straight-shooter. I haven't read the whole article yet, but I plan to; I am sufficiently intrigued.