Jennifer Korte, vice chair of the Madison County GOP, said the decision in Chiles v. Salazar is a First Amendment win that safeguards faith-based counseling and affirms families’ authority over children’s medical care.
The Supreme Court ruled 8–1 that Colorado’s ban on conversion therapy for minors likely violates the First Amendment, siding with a Christian counselor who argued the law restricted her speech. The majority said states cannot limit what licensed therapists say based on viewpoint, framing the ban as unconstitutional censorship. The case is sent back to lower courts under strict scrutiny and could affect similar laws nationwide, according to Politico.
Korte said, “In Chiles v. Salazar, the Court made it clear: the government has no business dictating what professional, Christian counselors are allowed to say. This kind of censorship undermines both liberty and trust in our institutions. Parents—not politicians—must remain the primary decision-makers when it comes to their children’s care. By protecting open dialogue, this ruling puts families back where they belong: in charge.”
The American College of Pediatricians reported that there is no long-term evidence supporting the safety or effectiveness of puberty blockers, cross-sex hormones, or surgeries for transgender youth, classifying these treatments as experimental. Without reliable data, parents cannot give fully informed consent, and minors cannot provide meaningful assent. Evidence cited by the group suggests puberty blockers may worsen gender dysphoria, self-harm, and emotional instability, with possible side effects including osteoporosis, mood disorders, and cognitive impairment. High doses of hormones can carry additional risks such as psychiatric issues, sterility, and cardiovascular problems.
Alliance Defending Freedom reported that Dr. Hilary Cass’s review for England’s National Health Service found limited evidence supporting puberty blockers and related treatments for children with gender dysphoria. Cass noted a lack of reliable long-term outcome data and criticized rapid adoption based on limited studies. She emphasized parental involvement in medical decisions unless it endangers child safety.
Korte was elected vice chair of the Madison County Republicans in 2024. In her role she focuses on improving party communications, supporting new candidates, and educating the public about legislation affecting the community. She advocates for children, senior citizens, and people with disabilities.
