Last week State Representative Rob Sampson, one of eight Republicans to vote against the state’s ban on anti-LGBTQ “conversion therapy,” canceled a scheduled coffee hour with constituents — ostensibly to focus on budget negotiations in which he’s not involved — after he received backlash for his vote.

Apparently Sampson’s “work” on the budget only keeps him occupied when it comes to explaining his vote to constituents, because he is scheduled to attendtomorrow’s Tea Party “rally” at the Capitol. He also found the time to visit a brewery recently.

“There is no other way to put it, this is cowardice from Rob Sampson. Elected officials have a responsibility to hear from the people they represent, and that includes explaining why they take specific positions. Let’s be clear, this should not have been a tough call. LGBT kids do not need to be ‘converted’ or ‘fixed,’ and ‘conversion therapy’ is not only ineffective, but often negatively affects those subjected to it. Representative Sampson’s constituents deserve answers. Sadly, he’s not interested in answering questions from those he is supposed to serve, only special interests who support his right-wing agenda.” – Connecticut Democratic Party Executive Director Michael Mandell