CALIFORNIA – Roy Ashburn, an antigay state senator, who made a name for himself over 14 years for opposing gay progress, came out on a California radio talk show this week. “I am gay… those are the words that have been so difficult for me for so long,” the 55-year-old divorced father-of-four told KERN radio.

Last year, Mr. Ashburn opposed a bill to establish a day of recognition to honour murdered gay rights activist Harvey Milk.

He has also voted in the statehouse against efforts to expand anti-discrimination laws and recognise out-of-state gay marriages. Mr. Ashburn said his votes reflected the way his constituents wanted him to vote, not his own “internal conflict”.

Mr. Ashburn said he felt the need to address rumours that he had visited a gay nightclub before his arrest on suspicion of drinking and driving in Sacramento on March 3.

He has been on leave since his arrest last week on suspicion of driving under the influence.

Mr. Ashburn, who represents California’s 18th district, said he does not plan to run for any public office after his term ends later this year.