Days after allegations that he’s closeted resurface, governor announces N.H. trip to speak to group promoting ‘ex-gay’ therapy
DAVID WEBB | The Rare Reporter
Sometimes the comments posted by readers of LGBT newspapers provide a fascinating glimpse into the mindsets of our community’s greatest adversaries because they are often part of the audience.
One that caught my eye recently was posted by a reader who objected to criticism directed against Texas Gov. Rick Perry for agreeing to headline the annual dinner on Oct. 28 of the anti-gay group Cornerstone Action in New Hampshire. The engagement is seen as further evidence that Perry is leaning toward running for the Republican Party’s presidential nomination in 2012 because New Hampshire is the first presidential primary state.
That put Perry on the LGBT community’s radar again because Cornerstone Action advocates the repeal of the state’s same-sex marriage law, and it promotes the work of so-called “ex-gay therapy” groups such as Exodus International, Love Won Out and the National Association for Research and Therapy of Homosexuality. The conversion therapy practiced by these groups has been denounced by the American Psychological Association, which refutes the notion that homosexuality is a mental illness.
The offended reader who was obviously a proponent of “ex-gay therapy” and a fan of Perry’s wrote, “Many, many people tormented with same-sex attraction have benefited from therapy. The homosexual pressure groups have no moral right to speak for these individuals.”
Only one reason comes to mind why someone would feel tormented by same-sex attraction, and that would be a result of being taught that homosexuality is evil and an aberration. Those same teachings would make someone who is heterosexual fear and despise someone who is openly gay. And if someone is gay and doesn’t want to be, it’s pretty easy to see how they would express homophobic opinions to help keep their shameful secret.
Groups such as Exodus International claim they are not attempting to influence “people who are perfectly happy living their gay life,” but the readers’ remarks make it clear they are monitoring everything we do by reading our publications. They also attend our public events surreptitiously when they are not staging protests, which prompts the question, “Why all the interest if suppression is not their goal?”
Perry’s camp announced the New Hampshire engagement after his appearance the previous weekend at the Republican Leadership Conference in New Orleans, where participants, enamored of his conservative social and fiscal policies, reportedly shouted, “Run, Rick, run.”
The announcement of the New Hampshire appearance was viewed as humorous by some because it followed on the heels of the re-emergence of widespread rumors that Perry is secretly gay and that his wife, Anita, almost divorced him over it. The rumors that the governor’s wife caught him involved in a sexual act with another high-level male government official became so widespread several years ago that Perry denied them in an Austin newspaper story, calling them a “political smear campaign.” A spokesman for the governor has acknowledged his staff is prepared to address the rumors again should he run for the presidential nomination.
Although almost no one actually believes Perry is secretly gay, his alignment at this point with a group so involved with the promotion of “ex-gay therapy” seems a little peculiar. After all, many of the proponents of ex-gay therapy claim they are recovered homosexuals, and several have been exposed by gay activists as frauds who still engage in same-sex activity.
With all of the rumors that previously circulated about Perry being gay and others claiming he cheated on his wife with other women, it would seem like the governor and his staff might be concerned that the next wild tale could be that he went to ex-gay therapy. If not, maybe the governor thinks this is a way of appearing to be compassionate toward a group of people his actions seem to indicate he despises.
Having talked with several of Perry’s and his wife’s high school and college acquaintances —some of whom are gay and lesbian — over the years, I doubt that Perry was always so intolerant and self-righteous. In fact, I understand the governor sowed quite a few wild oats in his younger years, to put it in the vernacular of his West Texas roots.
But somewhere along the line during his 26-year career in Texas politics, Perry, who is a Methodist, apparently realized that conservative religious zealots would propel him to fame, fortune and power if he pandered to them. That, unfortunately, puts the LGBT community in the crosshairs of Perry’s aim, so it is a real possibility that the rest of the nation is going to experience what it is like to live in a state where an over-the-top, anti-gay elected official sets the political tone. •
David Webb is a veteran journalist who has covered LGBT issues for the mainstream and alternative media for three decades. E-mail him at davidwaynewebb@yahoo.com.
I can’t seem to get through an entire story about Rick Perry without vomiting. Perhaps I should see a doctor.
What’s interesting about this article is you try to pull people in with a controversial headline only to briefly mention in paragraphs 9 and 11 (which you provide zero evidence and in paragraph 9 even admit “Although almost no one actually believes Perry is secretly gay.” Which by the way should read “Although a majority” and not “Almost no one”). Frankly being a Republican and not really caring about people being a “homosexual” this story was pointless. Also your writing style is poor and filled with grammatical errors and your thesis never reached fruition. In the real world of business you’d receive a grade of F; but seeing as the Dallas Voice has no standards on who actually writes for them you probably received an A+ from an editor who wished they could write for the D.M.N. Feel free to respond, I’d honestly love a rebuttal to an article that wouldn’t be published in a Dallas Charter High School news paper.
If Rick Perry runs for president, he could have Charlie Christ as his running mate and they could both be not-gay together.
@Tom: Thanks for lowering your standards long enough to read what I had to say.
Admittedly I did not read much past the headline. The answer is obvious: of course he is. Anyone who is so extremely “anti” is almost always attempting to compensate out of fear of their own feelings and inclinations. Some of us have (or had) the courage to come out. Others like Rick Perry do not. So I will quietly continue to vote Democratic while Gov. Perry cowardly hides behind his political agenda.
Rick Perry, the Ted Haggard of governors.
MontemalonePosted on July 8, 2011 at 5:52 pmRick Perry, the Ted Haggard of governors.” I Have Sinned Again….Oh and that time too…Oppsee
Dude, this guy would run with Joel Burns, This is going to be a coster ride with 2 Gay People running.
“Although almost no one actually believes Perry is secretly gay…” Evidence? Have any polls addressed the issue? I think he might very well be gay. If he’s as homophobic as he seems, there must be a reason. A study showed that about 55% of men who scored high on a homophobia scale became aroused when shown pictures of two men having sex.
Matt,
Irony is, If I saw a picture of Goodhair goin at it with one of his “supporters” arousal is the last thing that would happen.
Maybe we should have a day of prayer and fasting for rick Perry to come out of the closet. Maybe we could do it in Houston on August 6th. It’s going to take a power bigger than Texas to allow Rick Perry to admit he is gay! We need everyones join me august 6th in Houston to pray for the gay man Perry!
So any evidence yet Mr. Webb? Or have you moved on to writing another story with zero evidence and little thought behind it. I said I welcomed a rebuttal from you; not an admission of truth by faltering to a pathetic line. I studied journalism on the side for kicks during college and I can assure you the following… Your article is pathetic. So where’s the evidence of “knowing” the Governor’s “West Texas” friends that gives proof that he’s hiding in the closet. Let’s see if journalistic integrity holds up and you can provide quotes. Because you and I both know you are full of it. Don’t quit your day job! Unless writing for the “Dallas Voice” is your job? Then I’d suggest they find someone else to hire for writing the op-ed section.
@Tom: You are free to crticize me however you want, but please don’t misrepresent what I’ve written. I wrote that his West Texas acquaintances do not think that he is secretly gay. I did not write that they think he is in the closet.
@Tom: Chill. “Slanted journalism” has been alive and well in the good old United States of America for most of the past three centuries. Pick up any newspaper on any given day and I bet you’ll find the phrase “Sources close to the….” or “an unidentified witness, who chose to remain anonymous…” Statements are made, conclusions are drawn. Case in point: Sources close to this story (i. e. me) surmise that you are a closeted, homosexual supporter of Rick Perry, according to an unidentified source (i. e. you) who chose to remain anonymous. Notice I didn’t state a single fact, except that I have an opinion. Therefore the statement I made is absolutely, truly, unquestionably, 100% true…because I really do think that about you.
First to David… Provide sources due to the headline picked for your article… “Could Rick Perry be ‘ex-gay’?” so sources?!?! Because if not as we say on the internet… Proof or GTFO! This is the same crap allegations that far left liberals tried to push back in 2006. Old News David, write editorials about things you can back up.
To James… That’s all and good except, Mr. Webb presented his article as if he was hinting at an allegation with zero proof, thus why I’m after this article for “slanted journalism.”
Funny thing is, I was searching on google news for articles about Perry running, and this one popped up. Seeing as I worked for the Texas Senate when this horse shit popped up back in 2006 and it was never proven true. Mr. Webb is desperate for material. I just now figured out this is a news site for non-heterosexuals. Go figure why this false crap is being written.
Hi I’m James Webb and I’m going to write a fake article with a crap tag line and yes I can’t back any of it up. ROFL
Honestly and not trying to be a jerk, but your headline is like me writing an article saying… “Could the CIA have implanted HIV into Blacks and Homosexuals to destroy their way of life?” Then I can site the following….
I happen to know several members of the CIA who have told me of their exploits into trying to keep America White and a cohesive family unit and see the dangers of boogy woogy and homosexuality as a true threat to the American way of life…. Just using your same scenario James…
Completely false and untrue, with no proof so there we go… Minorities and Homosexuals have HIV because White people hate everyone.
So… Think about it before you decide to writing an editorial of baseless crap.
It’s official… You’re arguments have been shut down. Feel free to respond, I welcome responses in any debate. But James… don’t bring your buddies in to defend you when you can’t defend claims without facts.
I’m guessing Tom finally passed out or something. He seemed to be confused about the identities of the people to whom he was ranting. That’s pretty funny, actually. Tom, in all seriousness, perhaps you might need to reach out to someone for a little help. It’s not a pretty sight, at all.
There have been rumors about Perry for years, rumors like his wife caught him with someone.
Me thinks he doth protest too much.
Tom,
newspaper is one word. You know, since we’re correcting grammer and all. : )
Gern Blantson, I hate to tell you this, but “grammar” doesn’t have an “e” in it.
I know a man who has slept with Rick Perry but is too afraid to publicly come out about it.
He used to keep his head covered with a towel when floating on a boat in the gay area of hippie hollow on Lake Travis.
David I hope you’re happy I put your little piece on the hot topics for this website. So you’re welcome, but lets launch into a few things. First… The allegation of Rick being gay… Hey if he is he is (yall should be happy you might just get your first “gay” POTUS!)
Legally I can’t comment any further on the whole subject. But as reported Mrs. Perry hired high powered Divorce Attorney Becky Beaver to handle claimed allegations as reported by the media. All I can say is… there was never proof of the allegation and I’m not going to say how I know this.
By law due to my previous employers during college, I cannot comment any further. But I am glad I did help you have some momentum on here David. Take care!
Does anyone really want him to be associated with our community? He’s an idiot! A male version of Michelle Bachman. The brother of George Bush. A mirror image of Ted Haggard. What is it with Texans and why do you elect these buffoons to publc office? I know the answer, so don’t try to answer the question Keep him down south, please.
I guess Rick Perry being a cheerleader in college at Texaz A & M doesn’t help his cause either.
“New Rumor”? Hardly — I’ve heard this both as rumor and as fact from those “closest” to the governor for all of the 8+ years he’s been governor. Most don’t believe there’s anything “ex” about it.
it is an open secret in austin that rick perry is gay. my friend and i were in whole foods market, in austin, and he propositioned him in the store. he asked him to one of his pool parties – those parties are infamous.
If anyone has any real proof that Rick Perry is gay, there are a lot of journalists (as in all over the nation) who want to talk to you, including me. My e-mail address is davidwaynewebb@yahoo.com. It’s printed at the bottom of my column, but I’m adding it here just to make sure you can reach me. I look forward to hearing from you.
David… Check and Mate. You just admitted your article was a load of shit. Way to go! Bahahahaha
Oh Hey… “Chris” your comment says Rick just openly shops as he pleases… You’re personally full of shit, tell me were the State Troopers there with Rick while he “propositioned” your “friend?” Personally gonna call it out like it is… there was once something called the “Gay Rage” that metropolitan police departments used to classify this type of slander, and murder committed by the non-heterosexual community. You all should personally be ashamed of yourselves. Most of all… “David Webb” who wrote a pathetic column in order to further her own career you pathetic sack of shit.
See you in 2012 “Honey.”
Tom needs a larger dildo. He’s so full of rage and obviously aint’ been gettin’ any. A good power fuck would do him a world of good.
I’d suggest one of those 10″ black ones. With the extra girth to stretch that misery right out your backside.
There are some videos on you tube talking about Perry being gay. One was very interesting about Rick Perry and the Bohemian Grove where according to the guy narrating the video, gay male prostitutes are brought in for the politicians and Perry was a participant. It also said that he was involved with one of his young chefs. True or not true, I don’t know, but it sounded plausible. Watch it and listen to it and see what you think. Maybe it could give you some sort of lead. Good luck. Its the hypocrisy I hate, from anyone. Unfortunately the world of politics seems to be filled with them.
Sorry Montemalone…. I don’t put things in my ass. I do find it quite funny that you clearly much like David can’t address facts and have to result to petty attacks. But hey it’s all good. You “girls” keep up with your bullshit and I’ll just sit back and laugh. As far as private gays “faking” families… It’s terrible that gays put women through having children only later to come out. My main thing is this… Why do y’all fake marriages with women to try to make it look like you’re all part of good society? I mean come on, it’s rather clear you guys can’t stand up to your fathers and put women through misery. Once again “Gay Rage!”
Personally… I feel bad for you “girls” lmao. Having lived in Austin for 5 years and made friends with decent and nice members of the gay community. I’m totally cool with who you feel like you are inside. But it stops here. If y’all wish to perpetuate bullshit on a man and his family… As I said before you’re full of shit and should be ashamed of yourselves. To be blunt… If you wish to be that kind of person who is non-tolerant that would be like me responding “AIDS is the cure for Queers!”. Because we all know thats a touchy subject in yall’s lifestyle and clearly a lie. If certain commentator’s on this site want to speak about dildos to insult someone, you’re clearly not a person with ethics and morals.
Ya know Tom, let’s pretend you are right. That what you say has validity and sunstance, proving that your argument is the better of the two, between Webb and yourself, I still would not concede with you, even in a court of law because you are a pompus, self-righteous prick. I am surpised you even have gay friends! If they saw the way you bully people, they would call you a coward 100% behind your back and maybe a few to your face. Its your revolting rhetoric and sanctimonious spirit of tone that makes me puke and vomit. You remind me of a man that, even when wrong, will lynch a person just so will not take a moment to self reflect on his errant attitude toward people, ideas and debates. I am sure that you will have a callus retort to my observation, that you will drum up your heart and beat your chest, typing furiously at the keyboard to defend your egomaniacal hysteria, then as your sipping a rum and coke, leaning back in your chair with feet on the desk with a shit-eating grin on your face, the same grin that you wore when you mocked every cliche saddled kid in elementary-highschool. See, you my friend have never got a good ass-whooping or suffered a humiliating blowback to understand the sympathies of man. And, I would say at this stage in your life, never will. You lack humility. Your tongue is derisive and your footsteps lack depth. I hope you grow some balls, some elephant balls that you can look yourself in the mirror and see who you really are.
Neo Tom, I think you probably hit the nail right square on the head. Unfortunately there are plenty of other people out there who can only elevate themselves by cutting down others. I am not quite sure where these types of insecurities arise, but they are clearly alive and well. I have also had past issues with Mr. Webb’s reporting, but rather than cut him down in a public forum, I opted to invite him to lunch (he accepted), and I told him TO HIS FACE what my issues were. We talked, we shared opinions and viewpoints, and we parted on friendly terms. Unfortunately not everyone is that diplomatic…or mature.
How can he be an ex-gay? He is queer as the day he was born and that remains unchanged. The gay rumor points to something that seems to be common knowledge in the Queers or Steers state and the hypocrisy is that as a Christian who signed the anti-gay marriage pledge by AFV and NOM, if true, he is an unfaithful and unrepentant husband who may yet be caught with his pants down. The real question is whether he is a dominant or a submissive partner.
NeoTom… I’ll address what you said and I’m not going to “drum up {my} heart and beat [chest], typing furiously at the keyboard to defend [my] ego-maniacal (ya you had a typo…) hysteria, then [as I’m] (typo here as well) sipping a rum and coke.” Lets get a few things straight here; my choice of drink is Guinness out of a cold can. That’s perfectly find that you think I’m pompous, an asshole, and whatever else you wish to call me. I’ve never denied being those things nor would I claim I’m not.
I’ve never mocked the LGBT community till I saw this article. However seeing as trolls exists in this corner of the universe as they do everywhere else… I’m happy to provide fuel to the fire. You can say what you wish and frankly I don’t care. I’ve been personally employed by two parties from my time in Austin that have dealt with this whole issue directly.
If you really want to know… I can’t stand Rick Perry and I’m a Ron Paul Libertarian (but that doesn’t matter to anyone posting here). I’m defending what I know to be fact; from blood suckers trying desperately to make a name for themselves off of lies. I’m gonna be honest with you all… If you ever want equality to at least have civil unions in the State of Texas; you shouldn’t post crap like this because it pisses republicans off.
Funny thing is, young republicans like myself don’t give a damn about people liking the same sex. What we do care about is having our people slaughtered by leftist commentators who will write lies in order to further themselves. Which guessing that I see “Subaru” and “Guy Spy” advertise on this site; yall got a long way to go to cut out “The Rage.”
Yes and I filled that with errors on purpose. Typing “frantically” while sipping on alcohol makes me do that. 🙂
Rick Perry reminds me of the kind of str8 guy who has a gay guy on the side who provides for him 100% non-reciprocal man service on a regiular basis.
As a charter member of Heterosexuals for Rick Perry I would like to say that he is Not Gay
As a charter member of non-heterosexuals against Rick Perry I would like to say that he is gay.
What does it matter!!..our present prez had ppl from the past accused him of being GAY! and plus the first thing he did upon being elected he hired Rahm…bisex. he installed as Chief-of Staff or ‘Staff -in-Chief.Most men espec.in HIGH power tend to keep their sex.orient.in the closet!!
Nobody is talking about this prez who might be a ‘closet gay’?Who were obamas’girlfriend in his past?nada!that should ring out a RED FLAG.!!oh no!they (libs) would blast you as racists! This prez sure exempt from public scruting…birthright,orientation,qualification (comunity organ)etc.
It all depends on what your definition of “ex” is.
There is no such thing as EX-Guy. That J.O. is either guy or not guy. With that being said, I think he surely looks and acts guy.
I ment to say GAY, Not GUY………….. SORRY
Of course Perry is not gay. He doesn’t kiss when he is bottoming.
and last but not least- a typical “I’m not gay MWM” Craigslist posting:
STR8 MWM LOOKING TO BOTTOM AND TRADE ORAL WITH ANOTHER STR8 MWM. Str8 white evangelical Christian republicans only…..” Hello Haggard, Foley. Crist, Dreier, oh, and did someone mention a governor, who will remain nameless? And now the latest,,,Sheriff Paul Babeu of Arizona, who not surprisingly is trying to run as a republican representative from the 4th District of Arizona.
Conspicuously absent from the short list is Craig from Idaho because he is not in the closet. It turns out he is in the restroom stall instead. Aye swan, yet another gay man apologizing for being a republican. And yes, we should include Haggard in this group of politicians, along with Bishop Eddie Long, George Rekers with Focus on the Family, Paul Crouch, founder and prez of Trinity Broadcasting Network, because all of them firmly believe that God is a republican.