Guv race: Log Cabin Republicans seek understanding with Paladino

The Log Cabin Republicans -- the main GOP lobby for gay rights -- is upset with gubernatorial candidate Carl Paladino right now, after his remarks that children should not be "brainwashed" into believing homosexuality is acceptable. But they're open to rapprochement.

"It’s unlikely that we’re going to endorse his candidacy at this point, but I’ve been in politics too long. Never say never," the New York Log Cabin Republicans chairman Gregory T. Angelo told Newsday. Paladino "could turn around tomorrow and issue a statement in which he apologizes for his statements. It’s important to maintain a dialogue."

An apology may be unlikely from Paladino, who refused such entreaties from the likes of Rudy Giuliani to Michael Bloomberg Monday.

But the GOP lieutenant governor candidate, Greg Edwards, might be the Paladino camp's man for fence-mending.

He's appearing at the Log Cabin Republicans annual fund-raiser Tuesday night in Manhattan, which the group has decided to open to the press.

Angelo said Edwards had committed to attend the event before his running mate's remarks on homosexuality this past weekend. On Monday, Edwards called to reiterate his interest in showing up, and Angelo said he accepted.

"We plan on treating him with the same dignity and respect that all New Yorkers deserve," Angelo said.

Also on hand will be Senate Minority Leader Dean Skelos (R-Rockville Centre), who led the charge against the gay marriage bill the Log Cabin Republicans consider one of their top priorities.