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Log Cabin Republicans Endorses Bob Franks for Senate in New Jersey

A Strong, Pro-Equality Republican Voices Support for ENDA, AIDS Funding

September 29, 2000

(WASHINGTON, DC) – The nation's largest gay Republican organization endorsed Congressman Bob Franks of New Jersey in the race for the US Senate seat being vacated by Senator Frank Lautenberg (D).

"After working with him in Congress, and after a series of meetings with gay and lesbian leaders in New Jersey, we welcome the day that Bob Franks is a leader for us in the United States Senate," said Rich Tafel, executive director of Log Cabin Republicans. "Bob is clearly in the tradition of Governor Christie Whitman (R) on equal rights for all Americans, and will make an excellent Senator for all the people of New Jersey."

Franks supports the Employment Non-Discrimination Act, and has voted five years in a row to increase funding for AIDS care, treatment and research by hundreds of millions of dollars over President Clinton's budget requests. Franks was also one of 63 Republicans to vote against the 1998 Hefley Amendment, which sought to overturn anti-discrimination policies for gay and lesbian federal workers. He also is a co-sponsor of the Hate Crimes Prevention Act.

"While his millionaire Democrat opponent has no record and appears ready to say anything – and to buy anything – to get elected, Bob Franks has a real record of delivering for New Jersey, a record we can build on together," Tafel said.