‘I’m Open to Meeting Him and Having an Open Conversation’
Adam Rippon says he’s still open to meeting with Vice President Mike Pence – but not right now. The skater who became the first openly-gay athlete who will compete during the Olympic Winter Games had delivered a huge attack against Vice President Mike Pence last month, when he reminded the world the former U.S. Congressman had supported funding of anti-gay conversion therapy.Â
Pence was so enraged, according to USA Today, his office called to try to arrange a meeting with Rippon. Pence’s office denies the call.
Rippon, however, refused Pence’s request, but in a new interview says he did so because he’s totally focused on winning at the Olympics – not because he doesn’t want to talk with Pence.
“I don’t want to distract from the competition or make this too much for my competitors and my teammates,” Rippon told reporters, according to MSN.
“After the competition I’m open to meeting him and having an open conversation, but opening ceremonies are tomorrow and I’ve been really focused.”
“I’ve been waiting 28 years to be here and I want to do everything I can to stay focused and ready for this opportunity,” Rippon added. “It’s my opportunity to show the world what I’ve got and represent my country the very best that I can.”
Pence, who is representing the U.S. delegation to the Olympics, on Thursday posted a tweet “supporting” Rippon – while declaring the fact he supported anti-gay conversion therapy “#FAKENEWS.”
Conversion therapy has been deemed both ineffective and harmful by nearly every major medical organization. It is linked to suicide and suicide attempts. Courts have ruled it is fraud. States and localities are banning the practice. Many see it as torture.
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