Gay conservatives back Romney
A US organisation for gay supporters of the conservative Republican Party has endorsed former Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney for president.
The Log Cabin Republicans did not endorse George W. Bush for president during the 2004 election campaign because of his support for a constitutional amendment banning same-sex marriage, but chose to endorse John McCain in 2008 due to his opposition to the proposed federal amendment.
Romney supports an amendment to define marriage as an institution between a man and a woman.
“The decision to endorse is the right one for our members, our community, and for the nation as a whole,” Log Cabin Republicans executive director R. Clarke Cooper said in an emailed announcement.
“Despite our disagreement with Governor Romney on the issue of marriage, on balance it is clear that in today’s economic climate, concern for the future of our country must be the highest priority.
“We are Republicans, and we agree with Governor Romney’s vision for America in which success is a virtue, equal opportunity is ensured, and leaders recognize that it is the American people, not government, that build our nation and fuel its prosperity.”
Cooper said that on issues of particular concern to the LGBT community, the organisation believed Romney would move the ball forward compared to past Republican presidents.
“No matter who is in the White House, it is crucial our community always has a credible voice speaking out on behalf of LGBT Americans,” he said.
“Log Cabin Republicans will be that voice to President Mitt Romney.”
The US presidential election will be held on Tuesday, November 6.