Gov. Robert Ehrlich fired late Thursday his appointee to the Washington Metro transit board, Robert Smith, based on his remarks on cable TV last week that homosexuals were “persons of sexual deviancy.”
Another board member, D.C. City Councilman Jim Graham, who is openly gay, protested Smith?s comments at a board meeting. “I was somewhat surprised” that the governor acted so swiftly, Graham said.
“The governor got it right away, and recognized how very significant for a number of people” the derogatory remarks were. “I?m pleased he acted as did.”
Ehrlich issued a strong statement. “Robert Smith?s comments were highly inappropriate, insensitive and unacceptable. They are in direct conflict to my administration?s commitment to inclusiveness, tolerance and opportunity.”
