HRC Blog

Eric Cantor Urges “Acceptance of Diversity;” Does He Mean It?

July 20, 2012 by Dan Rafter, Online Campaigns Manager

House Majority Leader Eric Cantor (R-VA) – who cosponsored and twice voted for the Federal Marriage Amendment to outlaw same-sex marriage in every state – is saying the GOP needs to do more to be the party of inclusion, in a recent interview with BuzzFeed.

Cantor is also one of the leading voices in defending the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) – but he now appears to be cautioning against the extremist voices that bubble up within the GOP.

In his remarks to BuzzFeed, Cantor said: “I think an even bigger issue than that, from a cultural standpoint, is the acceptance of diversity. And the acceptance of diversity of opinion.” Cantor went on to say: “And if you’re for gay marriage, this country allows you to express your views. Some states support it and allow it, and others don’t. But it’s ok to have that difference of opinion in that.”

Are these remarks a sign that his views are changing, or is it simply an attempt to help keep his majority in the House by making his caucus seem more moderate? Actions speak louder than words. A good first step would be for Cantor to announce his support for protecting LGBT victims of domestic violence and use his power as Majority Leader to get an inclusive Violence Against Woman Act reauthorized this year. Even if there is disagreement about DOMA and marriage equality, surely an inclusive party could at least make sure that victims of violence have some desperately needed help.