Each week we are profiling a political candidate to see where they stand on transgender issues. We have no interest in taking sides politically and we will try to look at these candidates solely based on their intentions towards the transgender community.
This week: Republican Candidate Marco Rubio
Marco Antonio Rubio was born on May 28, 1971. He is currently the junior Senator from Florida. He is a 2016 candidate for President of the United States
Though the information on Marco Rubio’s position towards the transgender community is a bit thin, we were able to find a few statements that may help us figure out where he stands.
During an appearance on CBS’ “Face the Nation,” Rubio said that he believes the definition of marriage is a union between a man and a woman. The Florida senator also added said that same-sex marriage was not a constitutional right and should be decided by state legislatures, not the courts. Despite his position, Rubio added that he didn’t think being gay was a choice stating “I also don’t believe that your sexual preferences are a choice for the vast and enormous majority of people,” he said. “In fact, the bottom line is I believe sexual preference is something that people are born with.
In a report for Buzzfeed Rubio said he is “against discriminating against people,” but he would not take a position on the longstanding legislation to address anti-LGBT discrimination, the Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA).
When again asked whether he supports the Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA), which would make it illegal to fire someone based on their sexual orientation or gender identity, Rubio said, “I’m not for any special protections based on orientation.”
Just recently Rubio came out stating he would reverse all of President Barack Obama’s executive orders having to do with transgender rights. According to Lifesitenews, Rubio was quoted as saying, “The executive orders would be to reverse the executive orders the president has made on things like gender equality in restrooms.”
So it appears Senator Rubio is not for doing anything with regards to transgender issues other than overturn protections that were granted via executive order. He does believe people do not choose to be gay or transgender. We know he is against ENDA and for the Defense of Marriage Act. So based on the statements he has made and the information we could find it appears Senator Rubio may do more harm then good for the transgender community.
As always we reached out to the Rubio campaign for a comment an we will post the results if we receive a response.
