Claude A. Allen

• Allen argues that the best way to prevent pregnancy, AIDS, and other sexually transmitted diseases is to encourage young people to abstain from sex until they are married.* There is no scientific evidence that abstinence-only programs have any impact.

• He has pushed for a doubling of federal funds to pursue abstinence-only educational programs, while comprehensive programs have faced deep funding cuts.

• In a speech, Allen stated that the "only thing that will help a young person avoid any of the sexually transmitted diseases is to avoid sexual activity until they are mature enough ... and we think that point is marriage."** Many gays and lesbians think this is a not-so-subtle attack on their lifestyle.

• Opposed efforts of many health groups to expand Medicaid coverage to children, calling it an expansion of welfare.

• Home-schooling advocate. Allen's three children are home-schooled.

• Allen was the campaign pitchman for Senator Helms in the 1984 Senate election race against then Gov. James Hunt. Sen. Helms was proudly anti-gay, he has referred to gay love as "sickening."*

• During the 1984 Senate campaign, Allen was criticized for his response to Gov. Hunt's description of Helm's backers as right-wingers. Allen said Hunt had links "with the queers."*

• In a speech, Allen stated that the "healthiest of families are typically two parent families, where you have a mother and father connecting because they bring different roles." **

Updated 9/9/04