Texas Gov. Rick Perry is standing by recent comments he made comparing homosexuality to alcoholism.

Asked by CNN’s Stephanie Cutter whether he believes homosexuality is a disease, the Republican replied, “I think my position has been fairly clear on that for a substantial period of time.”

Mr. Perry argued that the country shouldn’t be so focused on social issues.

“I think the social issues should be decided state-by-state rather than being something in Washington, D.C., to try to make one-size-fits-all,” he said.

The governor would not expand on his views regarding homosexuality.

“I got asked a question and I responded the way that I have before,” he told Miss Cutter. “I think my comments stand on their own. I can’t help you understand it.”

Mr. Perry faced backlash last week after he said during a panel discussion that people “have the ability to decide” against being gay or an alcoholic.

“I may have the genetic coding that I’m inclined to be an alcoholic, but I have the desire not to do that, and I look at the homosexual issue the same way,” he said.

Mr. Perry made a similar comparison in his 2008 book “On My Honor,” writing that homosexuality is an “active choice,” similar to drinking.

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