Gay Republican group ‘stop fighting’ endorsement of ‘gay cure’ therapy in Texas platform

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The Log Cabin Republicans group has said it will stop fighting attempts to introduce an endorsement of ‘gay cure’ therapy in the Texas Republican platform.

The first draft of the Texas GOP’s state platform, currently being discussed at the Republican state conference, includes a provision endorsing therapy to cure gay people.

It reads: “We recognize the legitimacy and value of counselling which offers reparative therapy and treatment to patients who are seeking escape from the homosexual lifestyle. No laws or executive orders shall be imposed to limit or restrict access to this type of therapy.”

The Log Cabin Republicans – who advocate for lesbian and gay issues within the party – have reportedly decided to stop fighting the provision, after it survived a key vote.

Jeff Davis, the group’s Texas chairman, said: “Fighting it on the floor may not be the best court of action.

“It might be in our best interest to wait until the convention is over and regroup.”

The language was inserted by tea party candidate Cathie Adams, who claims she was just trying to ‘help’ gay people, and said she had met an ex-gay activist.

She said: “He knows what he’s talking about. He is one of those who has benefited.

“I think the majority of Texans feel that way too. It’s not like this is mandatory. This is only a voluntary program.”

The final vote is due on the platform later today.

Therapy attempting to ‘cure’ homosexuality has been condemned by nearly every major health organisation, including the American Psychological Association.