The White House and LGBTQ+ rights advocates have strongly criticized Georgia U.S. Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene for her incendiary remarks against Rachel Levine, the first openly transgender official confirmed by the U.S. Senate. Greene’s proposal to reduce Levine’s salary to $1, coupled with consistent misgendering and use of her deadname, has sparked widespread condemnation.
A Spokesperson’s Outrage
A White House spokesperson condemned Greene’s actions as “hateful, dangerous, and unacceptable,” especially in the current climate where the LGBTQI+ community faces significant attacks. The Biden-Harris Administration reiterated its support for Admiral Rachel Levine, assistant secretary for health, emphasizing her role in improving public health.
Health Secretary’s Support for Levine
Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra took to social media to express solidarity with Levine. Becerra emphasized that there is no place for bigotry in public discourse and pledged to defend the rights and dignity of the LGBTQI+ community.
The Human Rights Campaign’s Stance
Kelley Robinson, president of the Human Rights Campaign, criticized the Republican Party’s targeting of LGBTQ+ public servants. Robinson called out the GOP’s actions as an attempt to score political points at the expense of LGBTQ+ individuals.
Greene’s Amendment and Accusations
Greene’s amendment, which ultimately failed, was part of a larger pattern of attacks on LGBTQ+ officials. She accused Levine of being a “diversity hire” pushing a “demonic gender-affirming care agenda” and being unfit for her role. Greene’s attack extended to Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg and Assistant Secretary of Defense for Readiness Shawn Skelly, with similar proposals to cut their salaries to $1.
Holman Rule and Political Targeting
The Holman Rule, which Greene invoked, allows House representatives to propose amendments affecting specific government employees or programs. However, her use of this rule to target openly LGBTQ+ officials like Levine and Skelly has been criticized as a hateful and unproductive approach.
Conclusion: Rejecting Hate-Fueled Politics
The White House and LGBTQ+ rights groups have united in their condemnation of Greene’s actions, highlighting the importance of respecting and protecting the rights of LGBTQ+ public servants. These hate-fueled efforts against LGBTQ+ officials do not advance national interests and stand in contrast to the values of equality and respect that many Americans uphold.