The SNP leadership race has already taken an unexpected turn, as a number of ministers have disavowed Kate Forbes due to her views on gay marriage. Ms. Forbes, the Scottish Finance Secretary, was transparent about her faith and stance on marriage equality during the February 21 launch of her campaign. After revealing she was pregnant, “Ms. Martin, convener of the health committee, tweeted that she was “uncomfortable” with the remarks on gay marriage and that “we must support equal marriage with all of our might.” Not even if or but. On this basis, I will not be supporting Kate’s campaign. She is extraordinarily talented; I wish her success. However, I have red lines. This is one of them.”
Ms. Forbes received support from Jim Fairlie, Michelle Thomson, and Business Minister Ivan McKee, as well as harsh criticism from her rival for the leadership, Humza Yousaf. Mr. Yousef advised GMS: “I believe my track record on issues of equality speaks volumes… I will always defend the equal rights of others, regardless of their identity.” He stated that, despite the criticism, he would still consider appointing Ms. Forbes to his cabinet if he were to be elected prime minister.
The LGBT+ community has responded vocally to Ms. Forbes’ views, with many expressing dismay and shock at her position. It also raises questions as to why her supporters did not anticipate this issue, given that Ms. Forbes has previously been open about her religious beliefs. There are still five weeks until the winner is announced on March 27. Ms. Forbes hopes that the SNP’s members will view the issue differently than the online discourse it has generated.
The issue of gay marriage has thrown the SNP leadership race into disarray, with Kate Forbes’ views on the subject sparking a heated debate among party members and LGBT+ activists. The Scottish Finance Secretary launched her campaign on February 21, but her position on marriage equality drew criticism from her colleagues within hours. Her rival for the leadership, Humza Yousaf, released a statement emphasising his support for equal rights regardless of one’s identity and highlighting his track record on the issue. Despite this, he stated that, if elected prime minister, he would still consider appointing Ms. Forbes to his cabinet. With five weeks remaining until the winner is announced, the future of the situation is uncertain.
