San Francisco (AP) – Asked about gay rights and marriage equality, Republican presidential candidate John Kasich says more people should take a “chill pill” and try to get along with one another rather than turn to unwieldy legislation.
The Ohio governor appeared at a town hall hosted by the Commonwealth Club of California April 29, where he answered questions on issues that included terrorism and health care as well as discrimination against gays and lesbians.
“Do I think people are born gay? Probably. I’ve never studied the issue, but I don’t see any reason to hurt you or discriminate (against) you or make you feel bad or make you feel like a second-class citizen,” Kasich said in a spirited exchange with a gay man in the audience.
“I don’t think that’s right. Because you know what? Everybody’s created in the image of the Lord.”
Kasich has walked a fine line on the issue, saying that he does not support same-sex marriage but that he also has attended a gay wedding. He said that he does not believe in discriminating against anybody, but religious views must also be honored.
His answer partially satisfied 62-year-old San Francisco resident Kelly Bryan.
“I simply wanted it to be answered that gay people are born gay and that it is not a lifestyle,” he said.
