News

Log Cabin Republicans Mourn the Death of President Gerald Ford

President Ford Advocated Freedom and Fairness for All Families

December 27, 2006

(Washington, DC) – Log Cabin Republicans mourn the death of former President Gerald Ford and send condolences to Mrs. Ford and their entire family. "President Ford was a great man called to lead our country during one of its most difficult hours," said Log Cabin President Patrick Sammon. "He will be remembered for helping to heal a wounded nation and for acting as a force for tolerance and common sense American values."

In 2001, President Ford joined the advisory board of the Republican Unity Coalition, a gay-straight alliance which was formed to advocate for gay and lesbian issues within the Republican Party. Ford's decision to join that board marked the first time a past or current U.S. president had joined an organization advocating for gay equality.

Also in 2001, Ford told Detroit News columnist Deb Price "I have always believed in an inclusive policy in welcoming gays and others into the [Republican] party." He went on to say that same-sex couples should receive the same economic benefits as married couples, such as Social Security and tax deductions. "I don't see why they shouldn't. I think that's a proper goal," Ford said at the time. "I think they ought to be treated equally. Period." He also expressed support for a federal law banning workplace discrimination based on sexual orientation, saying "That is a step in the right direction. I have a longstanding record in favor of legislation to do away with discrimination."

In a 1999 appearance on CNN's Larry King Live, President Ford said, "The Republican Party ought to be the party of the middle, not the party of the extreme right wing."

"President Ford recognized that all Americans deserve to be treated with dignity and fairness," said Sammon. "Throughout his presidency, President Ford served with integrity as a leader for all Americans."