Potential Republican presidential candidate Ben Carson said he’s sorry for suggesting that changes in the sexual practices of prisoners proves that homosexuality is a choice.
Carson issued an apology Wednesday, hours after he told CNN that being gay is a choice because people ‘go into prison straight…and when they come out, they’re gay.’
In his statement, Carson said he ‘realized that my choice of language does not reflect fully my heart on gay issues.’
‘I do not pretend to know how every individual came to their sexual orientation,’ Carson said. ‘I regret that my words to express that concept were hurtful and divisive. For that I apologize unreservedly to all that were offended.’
In a radio interview later with conservative host Sean Hannity, Carson said he won’t talk about gay rights anymore ‘because every time I’m gaining momentum, the liberal press says ‘let’s talk about gay rights – and I’m just not going to fall for that anymore.’ Carson isn’t the only potential Republican presidential contender to complain about so-called ‘Gotcha’ questions from the media.
Carson’s gay-by-choice remarks riled gay rights activists and supporters. The Human Rights Campaign rhetorically asked ‘When did Ben Carson Choose to be Straight’ in an email statement Wednesday condemning his remarks.
Gregory Angelo, executive director of the Log Cabin Republicans, said Carson is ‘a felony conviction away from being gay’ based on the retired neurosurgeon’s prison analogy.
Angelo Thursday said he accepted Carson’s apology but remains maintains that he would be an unacceptable Republican presidential candidate because of his political inexperience. Carson formed a presidential exploratory committee on Monday.
‘I’m wary of how many more ‘oopsy’ moments are possible,’ Angelo said. ‘It’s not assuring to me and it shouldn’t be for other Republicans. It shows he’s not ready for prime time.’
Comments