Rep. Andy Ogles draws GOP criticism for anti-LGBTQ tweet

A Republican congressman is facing significant criticism from members of his own party and others after declaring on social media that "homosexuality has no place in America." Representative Andy Ogles of Tennessee made the post on the second day of June, which is widely recognized as Pride Month, adding, "Happy Nuclear Family Month."

The post was quickly deleted, but the backlash was swift. Fellow Republican Representative Mike Lawler of New York publicly called the statement "absolutely idiotic" and directly challenged Ogles. Lawler stated that homosexuality exists in America and that Ogles has gay and lesbian family, friends, neighbors, colleagues, and constituents who are no less worthy of being American. In comments to a reporter, Lawler reportedly used stronger language, calling Ogles an expletive and stating he would repeat it to him in person.

The remark also drew pointed responses aimed at Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, who is openly gay and serves in the current administration. Representative Becca Balint, a Vermont Democrat who is the first openly gay person elected to Congress from her state, publicly asked Bessent for comment, noting the statement would be news...