News
D'Amato, Lungren Weight in on Growing Battle
D'AMATO SLAMS LOTT
In stinging letter to Majority Leader Trent Lott (R-MS), Senator Alfonse
D'Amato weighs in against anti-gay intolerance, with specific reference to
the nomination of Jim Hormel to be Ambassador to Luxembourg: "I fear that
Mr. Hormel's nomination is being obstructed for one reason, and one reason
only: the fact that he is gay. In this day and age, when people ably serve
our country in so many capacities without regard to sexual orientation, for
the United States Senate to deny an appointment on that basis is simply
wrong. What's more, on a personal level, I am embarrassed that our
Republican Party, the Party of Lincoln, is seen to be the force behind this
injustice."
LUNGREN WEIGHS IN
After remarks on a talk show interview, Senate Majority Leader Trent Lott
(R) "characterized homosexuality as a disease akin to kleptomania and
called gay sex a sin." Lungren "said that he would have put it differently
and that he does not know whether homosexuality is a chosen behavior, as
Lott suggested." Lungren: "Those are not the words I would use to describe
(homosexuality)," as to whether people are born gay or decide to become
gay, "Frankly, I don't know what the answer is. I mean, if someone's got
the complete answer on the question, I'd like to see it." Lungren
"defended his own record on gay rights by noting his opposition to the
Briggs Initiative in 1978, which would have barred homosexuals from
teaching in public schools. The initiative, which also was opposed by
then-Governor Ronald Reagan, was overwhelmingly defeated"
(Gunnison/Sandalow, San Francisco Chronicle, 6/18).
DOBSON: HOSPITALIZED FOLLOWING STROKE
Focus on the Family's James Dobson, 62, was hospitalized late 6/16
following a "very mild" stroke. He is now "under medical observation and
resting comfortably while undergoing a series of tests and procedures to
better determine his condition." There is "no indication of paralysis, no
loss of consciousness, and his arteries are perfectly clear" (Focus on the
Family release, 6/17).