This morning, former U.S. Congressman Ryan Zinke was confirmed by the U.S. Senate to be the next Secretary of the Department of Interior.

Ryan Zinke has a history of discriminatory rhetoric and opposition to LGBTQ equality. He suggested a former challenger was making a “choice” to be a lesbian and strongly opposed both adoption and marriage for LGBTQ couples. His record of opposing equality adds to the Trump Administration’s reputation of being the most vocally anti-LGBTQ in recent memory.

BACKGROUND INFORMATION: Ryan Zinke & His Anti-LGBTQ Record Join the Trump Administration

Zinke once implied his lesbian congressional challenger was making a choice, saying “If you want to be a lesbian…”[Associated Press, 10.6.16]

Zinke opposes adoption by same-sex couples: “I do not support same sex marriages or the adoption of children by same-sex couples.” [On The Issues]

Zinke insisted the Supreme Court’s 2015 decision on marriage equality “undermines religious freedom” and usurps the rights of Montana and several other states that have chosen to define marriage within their states. [Intelligent Discontent, 6.26.16]

Following the U.S. Supreme Court ruling on marriage equality, U.S. Rep Zinke cosponsored a resolution that declared the U.S. House of Representatives disagreed with the court ruling. [Congress.gov, 7.29.15]

Zinke on marriage equality: “The term ‘marriage’ is sensitive to Christians. I just don’t agree with ‘same sex’ — the term. I don’t disagree with the union. You know, maybe that group should embrace union,” Zinke said. “But the term ‘marriage’ is sensitive. It’s sacred and it’s part of the Christian culture that I think is just a bridge too far.” [Missoulian, 4.30.14]

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