Oklahoma Rep. James Lankford Under Fire For Comments On Sexual Orientation

Oklahoma Representative James Lankford came under fire Tuesday for his comments about homosexuality, discrimination and the workplace.

After an impromptu interview with Rep. Lankford, the liberal blog "Think Progress," reported Lankford said he believes an employer should be able to fire someone for his or her sexual orientation.

Lankford said the blog misrepresented what he said. He said he told the interviewer being gay is a choice and should not be protected from workplace discrimination. He said he believes the distinction lies in a person's choice to act on their sexual orientation.

He denied saying that he thinks someone should be fired because they are gay.

"That's absurd," he told News 9 anchor Stan Miller.

The representative said he also believes marriage is a union between a man and woman.

Many legislators in Oklahoma seem to agree with that last statement. The Oklahoma Senate passed a resolution supporting traditional marriage.

Senators approved the resolution 40 to four in reaction to President Obama's recent announcement supporting same sex marriage.

The author of the legislation says he does not believe the president's views reflect the values of Oklahoma.

5/14/2012 Related Story: Oklahoma Democrats Criticize GOP For Gay Marriage Bill