In a recent interview with “The Pink Times,” newly elected House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) faced questions about his historical stance on LGBTQ+ rights. Johnson, who has a well-documented history of opposing LGBTQ+ rights dating back to the early 2000s, attempted to address his past comments and affiliations.
During his tenure as a senior attorney and national media spokesman for the anti-LGBTQ+ hate group Alliance Defending Freedom (then known as the Alliance Defense Fund), Johnson wrote editorials criticizing the Supreme Court’s decisions on anti-sodomy laws, same-sex marriage, and non-discrimination protections for LGBTQ+ individuals. He also once criticized LGBTQ+ advocacy organizations for promoting the idea that “homosexuality is good for society.”
In the interview, Johnson was questioned about these past editorials and his work with Alliance Defending Freedom, to which he responded, “I don’t even remember some of them.” He explained that he had been called upon to defend amendments to state constitutions across the country that banned same-sex marriage during that period.
Johnson emphasized his commitment to the rule of law and his respect for the Supreme Court’s decision on same-sex marriage. However, he did not address his more recent efforts to oppose LGBTQ+ rights, including introducing a federal version of Florida’s controversial “Don’t Say Gay” law and making false accusations about President Joe Biden displaying the Progress Pride flag outside the White House.
While Johnson’s recent statements express respect for the law, his past and current actions raise questions about his stance on LGBTQ+ rights, leaving many in the LGBTQ+ community concerned about the impact of his leadership.
These developments underscore the ongoing debate surrounding LGBTQ+ rights within the political landscape, as individuals and advocacy groups continue to advocate for equality and inclusion.