REVEALED: Indiana Gov. Mike Pence’s Ugly History Of Anti-LGBT Advocacy

This afternoon Buzzfeed used the evil Wayback Machine to uncover the anti-LGBT positions staked out by Indiana Gov. Mike Pence back when he was running for Congress in 2000.  Business Insider gives us the recap:

“Congress should oppose any effort to recognize homosexual’s as a ‘discreet and insular minority’ entitled to the protection of anti-discrimination laws similar to those extended to women and ethnic minorities,” his website stated under the headline: “The Pence Agenda: A Guide To Renewing The America Dream.” Pence’s old campaign website contained several other controversial claims about the gay community. He apparently advocated ending the military’s former “Don’t Ask Don’t Tell” policy that allowed gays to serve if they did not disclose their sexuality. The text on his site indicated the rule was problematic because gays should not be allowed in the armed forces under any circumstances. “In addition to defense spending, Congress should lead a national debate on reforming the military by bringing an end to the ‘don’t ask/don’t tell’ policy of permitting homosexuals to serve in the armed forces. Homosexuality is incompatible with military service because the presence of homosexuals in the ranks weakens unit cohesion,” his agenda stated. He also seemed to advocate government funding for organizations that encourage gays to renounce their homosexuality.

And then there’s the part where Pence calls for the federal government to stop funding any HIV/AIDS organization that doesn’t also denounce homosexuality. But he totally opposes discrimination today, so it’s all good, right?  See the old site here. (Tipped by JMG reader Colin)