CONCORD, NH (AP) -- The nation's first openly gay Episcopal bishop, New Hampshire's Gene Robinson, today endorsed presidential hopeful Barack Obama.

Robinson says he was lured to Obama's campaign because of the Illinois Democrat's experience with racism and discrimination.

Robinson says he hopes to persuade Obama to embrace marriage for gay and lesbian couples.

Obama supports civil unions and rights for gay couples, but stops short of supporting gay marriage.

Robinson has drawn worldwide criticism from conservatives since his consecration as bishop in 2003.

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