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Lobbyist Says He's Working To Ban Gay Players From NFL

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- A Washington lobbyist says he's drafting legislation that would ban gay players from the NFL.

The Republican strategist, Jack Burkman, told TheHill.com in a statement that he believes the U.S. is losing its "decency."

"Imagine your son being forced to shower with a gay man," Burkman said. "That's a horrifying prospect for every mom in the country. What in the world has this nation come to?"

Burkman, who also hosts a syndicated radio show, claimed there was some support behind the bill.

"If the NFL has no morals and no values, then Congress must find values for it," he said.

His comments were met Monday with a mix of outrage and bewilderment. One person tweeted, "History will not look kindly upon you Mr. Jack Burkman. Shame on you."

"Bring it on," Cyd Zeigler of Outsports.com wrote in response. "This is a fight we'd like to have with you, and it's one I guarantee you'll lose."

Others brushed it off as a Hail Mary for headlines.

"Don't expect it to amount to anything," wrote The Wire's Philip Bump. "It's likely a nonsense publicity stunt from a small-time conservative podcast host."

Missouri defensive end and NFL Draft hopeful Michael Sam announced he's gay earlier this month. He has built a friendship with Jason Collins, who made history Sunday night as the NBA's first openly gay active player after signing a 10-day deal with the Brooklyn Nets.

"I wish you guys would just say, 'Michael Sam, how's football going? How's training going?' " Sam said Saturday at the NFL Combine in Indianapolis. "I would love for you to ask me that question. But it is what it is. I just wish you guys would just see me as Michael Sam the football player instead of Michael Sam the gay football player."

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