Newly elected House Speaker Mike Johnson is clarifying his stance on gay marriage.
The Louisiana Republican has a history of being opposed to same-sex marriage and fighting against gay rights.
In an interview on Fox News Thursday, Johnson said he respects "the rule of law" and "genuinely loves all people, regardless of their lifestyle choice."
He went on to say although he calls himself a "Bible-believing Christian," he only wants "what's best for the American people and to defend the rule of law."
During the interview, Johnson also touched on the mass shooting in Lewiston, Maine that left 18 people dead.
He said guns aren't the problem and now is not the time to discuss gun control laws and that the problem lies in the "human heart," adding the House should focus on tackling mental health issues.
The shooting this week prompted calls from Democrats for an assault weapons ban, universal background checks and other gun reform measures opposed by Republicans.
Copyright © 2023 TTWN Media Networks Inc.