Media Continue to Scrutinize Anti-Gay Statements of Candidates' Supporters

In recent weeks, the media have been busy scrutinizing controversial statements made by the supporters and associates of the leading presidential candidates. We recently noted the work of journalists who brought to light the extreme anti-gay statements made by John McCain supporter and televangelist John Hagee. On the March 14 broadcast of CNN's Anderson Cooper 360, correspondent Tom Foreman continued to take a close look at the anti-gay backgrounds of McCain's high-profile supporters. Foreman brought attention to the alarming anti-gay comments made by televangelist and McCain supporter Rod Parsley, who McCain has called a "spiritual guide."  Parsley was quoted as saying in the report, "I will lift my voice against the agenda of America's tortured and angry homosexual population."

It is encouraging that the media keep raising awareness of the anti-gay comments made by these high-level political supporters.  We hope they continue to question whether this divisive rhetoric reflects the candidates' platforms as well as the views of most Americans.

Paul Karr is the Director of Media Field Strategy