Rep. Andy Ogles (R-TN) kicked off Pride Month on Tuesday by insisting that “homosexuality has no place in America,” and instead voiced support for the non-existent “Nuclear Family Month” in an apparent jab to the LGBTQ community, a series of remarks that elicited sighs from onlookers.
“These posts get sadder and sadder every year,” wrote Andrew Wortman, a prominent political commentator and writer, in a social media post on X to his nearly 300,000 followers.
Ogles has developed a reputation for making provocative and controversial remarks, including his assertion that “Muslims don’t belong in American society” back in March, or that his child “still has nightmares” about former President Joe Biden. His latest remarks, that "homosexuality" had “no place” in the United States, appeared to exhaust several observers.
“Notable that Rep. Andy Ogles isn't even opposing gay marriage here. He's straight up saying ‘homosexuality has no place in America,’” noted MS NOW’s Matt Fuller in a social media post on X. “Seems like the GOP may be retracing its steps on this issue.”
Ogles’ remarks even caught the attention of a fellow supporter of President Donald Trump and ex-lawmaker, former Rep. George Santos (R-NY), who is openly gay.
“As much as I support the Nuclear family and how fundamental it is for life. I never thought I’d hear a person I consider a friend say there is no place for me in this country simply because of who I chose to love,” Santos wrote in a social media post on X, responding to Ogles’ online post.
“I never once pushed my lifestyle onto anyone and have always voted and advocated for conservative principles. But I have the same civil rights as anyone else in this country and I am saddened by this insane comment.”
And Katherine Gates, the digital director for the voter outreach organization Voters of Tomorrow, expressed sympathy for Ogles.
“It seems exhausting being this hateful!” Gates wrote in a social media post on X. “B---- and moan all you want Andy. Gay marriage isn’t going anywhere. Happy pride y’all.”
As much as I support the Nuclear family and how fundamental it is for life.
I never thought I’d hear a person I consider a friend say there is no place for me in this country simply because of who I chose to love.
I never once pushed my lifestyle onto anyone and have always…
— George Santos (@Georgesantos) June 2, 2026