There is open discussion of "seats" on the Supreme Court based on the genetics of their birth. I grant it is all rather stupid.
But if it is okay to talk about seats for women, for blacks, maybe for an hispanic, what is the big deal about discussing one's sexual orientation?
I personally don't care if one is male/female, black/Hispanic/white, or gay. I am interested in their judicial philosophy. But genetics and identification with certain groups can mean you are more likely to hold one view than another.
If one's sexual orientation is a no-no, that implies it is something disgraceful, to be hidden. If that is true, we shouldn't allow spouses to accompany Supreme Court nominees to their nomination announcement.