Massachusetts governor heckled at LGBT event

April 14, 2016 5:50 pm

By: Rebecca Turco (with additional reporting by The Associated Press)

Email: rturco@abc6.com

BOSTON, Mass. – Massachusetts Gov. Charlie Baker says he respects the feelings of an LGBT group that booed him off a stage when he declined to commit to legislation that would expand protections for transgender people in public places.

Baker told reporters on Thursday that he opposes any form of discrimination but again refused to say if he’d sign the bill if it reached his desk. He said he doesn’t, as a general rule, take positions on bills pending before lawmakers.

The Republican ended a speech early Wednesday night after being heckled by the audience at the Boston Spirit LGBT Executive Networking Night.

Some locals feel he should have taken a stand. "I think people have the right to do what they need to do, they feel what they feel,” explained Lisa Cock of Attleboro.

Others disagree with the legislation. "What would you say if your daughter says, hey that lady over there has parts that I don’t have – what do you say to that,” questioned Ben Poirier of North Attleboro.

Baker said he was invited by the group to speak about a first-in-the-nation program to assist gay and lesbian-owned businesses seeking state contracts. He also noted his support for gay marriage.

The State Senate will debate the bill next month.