Washington, D.C. -- The Democratic National Committee (DNC) Monday called on the Republican leadership to put an end to cynical and discriminatory rhetoric and legislative pandering at the expense of America's gays and lesbians. The DNC Chairs called on the do-nothing Republican Congress to end the poisonous partisanship and move on with effective legislation.

"Republicans are moving in the wrong direction and it is time for them to get back to business," said DNC General Chair Governor Roy Romer.

"Abusing gays and lesbians for cheap political points is wrong and it must stop. The Republican Party should call off their attack dogs and start talking about issues that really matter to Americans. Let's talk about ways to strengthen public education, improve service by HMO's, reduce crime and other critical issues that will improve everyone's life."

The DNC criticism follows weeks of anti-gay commentary from Republican leaders such as Sen. Trent Lott (R-MS), Rep. Dick Armey (R-TX), and RNC Chair Jim Nicholson. Republicans have also launched legislative attacks on gays and lesbians.

"It is no coincidence that when the extreme right wing of the Republican Party drives cynical and discriminatory rhetoric at gay and lesbian Americans, they diminish the productivity and accomplishment level of Congress," said DNC National Chair Steve Grossman.

"They are bogging down the appropriations process right now with politically motivated and morally repugnant amendments at the expense of gay and lesbian citizens."