Broun Flip-Flops After Fleming Criticism

Press Release

Broun Flip-Flops After Fleming Criticism

After being called out three times on his controversial stance on gay marriage by Barry Fleming, Paul Broun announced yesterday that he will be introducing a constitutional amendment to protect the traditional institution of marriage from re-definition by state or federal judges.

This is a very different message than what he said during last year's special election. According to a July 18, 2007 Athens Banner Herald article, "Broun brings it home," Broun campaigned against a national amendment defining marriage as the union between a man and woman. The article stated that Broun believes a marriage amendment "ought to be left up to states."

In contrast, Fleming proved why he is the conservative in step with the values of northeast Georgians by clearly stating his position publicly. On Saturday, May 3, 2008, during the first 10th District debate, Fleming pointed out the differing views between Broun and Fleming on a federal marriage protection amendment. On Thursday, May 15, 2008, Barry Fleming said, "We need an amendment to the U.S. Constitution defining marriage as the union between a man and woman." On Friday, May 16, 2008, Barry Fleming said, "I believe a marriage protection amendment to the U.S. Constitution is the only way to defend our state's right to recognize only traditional marriages."

"The 10th district needs a representative who understands the people of northeast Georgia and doesn't have to be shamed into representing their values. Paul Broun has repeatedly shown that he is not up to the task, while Barry Fleming has proven himself to be a capable, conservative worker for our district," said Cam Kirbo, Fleming Campaign Manager. "What tough issue will Broun flip-flop on next? It comes as no surprise Democrats want him as their punching bag in the general election," added Kirbo, in reference to active Democratic support during the 2007 run off.

This is not the first time Broun's position has changed drastically in the face of public scrutiny. According to a July 16, 1992 Atlanta Journal-Constitution article, "Two Republicans like Peas in a Pod on Political Issues," Broun first flip-flopped during his 1992 election when he switched from being pro-choice to pro-life after being criticized by his strictly anti-abortion opponent. Similarly, on April 28, 2008, Fleming pointed out the need for a balanced budget and Broun's failure to cosponsor H.J.Res. 1, a resolution proposing a balanced budget amendment to the Constitution of the United States. Then, on Wednesday, May 15, 2008 Broun responded to Fleming's criticism and announced that he had finally cosponsored H.J.Res. 1 after ten months in office.

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