Democratic Governor Andy Beshear’s executive order banning “conversion therapy” for minors in Kentucky is another example of government overreach and liberal disregard for family autonomy. While the governor claims this is necessary to protect children, it raises serious concerns about parental rights, religious freedom, and the appropriate use of executive power. This ban undermines the family’s role in making decisions for their children, dismissing the deeply held beliefs of many Kentuckians.
Bypassing the Legislative Process
One of the most troubling aspects of this ban is its implementation. Beshear used his executive authority to bypass Kentucky’s Republican-dominated legislature, which had previously rejected similar proposals. This kind of unilateral decision-making is exactly what conservatives have been warning about—a governor forcing his agenda onto the people without going through the democratic process.
Why wasn’t the issue handled through the proper legislative channels if it is so important? Instead of engaging in debate and respecting elected representatives’ voices, Beshear took it upon himself to dictate policy. This sets a dangerous precedent for executive overreach, where the will of the people is circumvented in favor of one person’s political ideology.
Infringement on Parental Rights
At the heart of this issue is the fundamental question of who decides what’s best for a child—the government or the parents. Beshear’s executive order strips parents of their right to seek counseling that aligns with their values and beliefs. Many conservative families, especially those guided by religious principles, believe that counseling aimed at addressing issues of gender identity or sexual orientation should be an option available to them. The ban on conversion therapy takes that choice away, essentially telling parents that the state knows better than they do.
Parental rights have always been a cornerstone of conservative values. Families, not the government, should be the primary decision-makers regarding their children’s upbringing. This executive order blatantly violates that principle, infringing on the family’s ability to choose the best path for their children.
Disregard for Religious Freedom
This ban doesn’t just undermine parental rights—it also strikes at the heart of religious freedom. For many families, their faith guides how they approach issues like gender identity and sexual orientation. By banning conversion therapy outright, Beshear is telling these families that their religious beliefs are irrelevant when it comes to raising their children. The government is essentially deciding what is and isn’t acceptable, which is a dangerous road.
Religious freedom is a fundamental right enshrined in the Constitution, and this executive order undermines that freedom by disregarding the deeply held beliefs of Kentuckians. It’s not just about banning a controversial practice—it’s about silencing religious viewpoints that don’t align with the liberal agenda.
The “Science” Behind the Ban
Supporters of the ban claim that conversion therapy is discredited and harmful, but the reality is far more nuanced. While some studies suggest adverse effects, there is no one-size-fits-all answer regarding counseling. Every family and every situation is different, and parents should be free to seek the type of counseling they believe is best for their child.
The left likes to push the narrative that anyone who disagrees with them is on the wrong side of “science.” However, science itself is not settled, and the studies they rely on often ignore the experiences of families who have found faith-based counseling to be a positive, supportive resource. The government should not dictate what is right or wrong in deeply personal matters.
An Assault on Conservative Values
This executive order is yet another example of the left’s agenda being forced on Americans, especially conservatives. It’s part of a larger pattern where liberals push their ideology through executive action, disregarding the will of the people and the values that many Americans hold dear. Whether it’s issues of gender, religion, or family, the left continues to erode the traditional values that have long been the foundation of our country.
Kentucky’s Republican lawmakers have rightly resisted efforts to ban conversion therapy, recognizing the importance of parental rights and religious freedom. Unfortunately, Beshear bypassed the legislature, proving that liberals are willing to impose their views at any cost.
Conclusion: Protect Parental Rights, Stop Government Overreach
Governor Beshear’s executive order banning conversion therapy for minors is an overreach that infringes on parental rights and religious freedom. Families should decide what’s best for their children, not the government. This kind of executive action sets a dangerous precedent, where one individual can impose their political agenda without going through the proper democratic channels.
It’s time for conservatives to stand up for the values that matter—faith, family, and freedom. We must continue to resist government overreach and ensure that the rights of parents and religious communities are protected. Kentucky deserves better than this, and it’s up to us to fight for it.