Republican state representative Jeff Holcomb’s recent statement on the Florida House floor has sparked controversy and criticism from many LGBTQ activists. During a speech advocating for Senate Bill 1382, which opposes LGBTQ service members, Holcomb claimed that terrorists “hate homosexuals more than we do.” The statement was met with surprise and backlash from those who interpreted it as evidence of negative attitudes towards LGBTQ individuals within the GOP.
Holcomb, who is an intelligence officer in the U.S. Navy Reserves, did not attempt to correct his statement or address the criticism that followed. The woman sitting directly behind him during the speech was seen in a video with her jaw dropped in surprise at his anti-LGBTQ remarks. While Holcomb has not commented publicly on the controversy, his website describes him as a “lifelong Republican” with “strong conservative values,” and he has received commendations for his military service, including a Navy Commendation Medal and a Global War on Terror Expeditionary Medal.
The video of Holcomb’s speech has been viewed nearly half a million times, and many on social media have accused him of expressing a hateful and discriminatory viewpoint towards LGBTQ individuals. The incident raises questions about the GOP’s stance on LGBTQ issues and the broader cultural and political climate in the state of Florida. As the controversy continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how Holcomb and his party will respond to the criticism.
