As Nevada gears up for its crucial Senate elections, the spotlight has turned to Republican candidate Sam Brown, whose views on LGBTQ+ rights have stirred significant concern among advocates and community members. Brown, who is running against incumbent Democrat Jacky Rosen, has a well-documented history of opposing LGBTQ+ rights, aligning himself with far-right ideologies that have become increasingly vocal within the Republican Party.
A Troubling Record
Brown’s role as the president and chairman of the Nevada Faith and Freedom Coalition has been marked by strong opposition to marriage equality and support for legislation that permits discrimination against same-sex couples under the guise of religious liberty. This stance was starkly evident when he echoed the Coalition’s denunciation of President Joe Biden’s signing of the Respect for Marriage Act in 2022, labeling it an assault on religious freedom.
Endorsing Discriminatory Policies
During his 2022 Senate campaign, Brown praised Florida’s controversial “don’t say gay” law, framing it as a necessary measure to combat so-called “indoctrination” in schools. Critics argue that such legislation, which mandates parental notification about students’ sexual orientation, endangers LGBTQ+ youth by potentially outing them to unsupportive families.
Deep-Seated Anti-LGBTQ+ Beliefs
Brown’s affiliations with anti-LGBTQ+ churches further cement his position. He has been actively involved with churches known for their vehemently anti-LGBTQ+ doctrines, such as Calvary Chapel Reno-Sparks and Liberty Baptist Church. Pastors from these churches have publicly condemned LGBTQ+ rights, with one calling homosexuality a “filthy, horrible sin.”
A Stark Contrast
In contrast, Senator Jacky Rosen has been a steadfast ally of the LGBTQ+ community, earning endorsements from major organizations like the Human Rights Campaign. Her efforts in the Senate have focused on protecting and advancing LGBTQ+ rights, including playing a pivotal role in the passage of the Respect for Marriage Act.
As Nevada heads to the polls, the stark differences between Brown and Rosen on LGBTQ+ issues underscore the high stakes of this election for the LGBTQ+ community.