Corey DeAngelis, a senior fellow at the American Federation for Children (AFC) and a prominent voice in the school choice movement, has been placed on administrative leave following shocking allegations of his involvement in gay adult films. Known for his staunch anti-LGBTQ+ stance, DeAngelis has built a career championing parental rights and school choice, often appearing on conservative media outlets. However, these recent allegations have rocked the conservative community, with many calling into question the credibility of one of their key figures.

The Allegations

Reports surfaced in September 2024, claiming that DeAngelis, who has frequently criticized LGBTQ+ rights, had appeared in multiple gay adult films in the past. The news sparked outrage, particularly among the right-wing groups that supported his anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric. The American Federation for Children, the organization he represents, has responded swiftly by placing him on leave while an internal investigation is conducted​.

DeAngelis, who has often positioned himself as a defender of “traditional family values,” has remained silent on the accusations. His critics, however, have been quick to point out the hypocrisy of his actions, with many taking to social media to express their disbelief. The organization has scrubbed DeAngelis’ profile from their official website, signaling their intent to distance themselves from the scandal​.

Fallout Within Conservative Circles

This scandal comes as a significant blow to the conservative education movement, which has long relied on figures like DeAngelis to push forward their agendas. The American Federation for Children, founded by former U.S. Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos, has been instrumental in advocating for school choice policies, often highlighting the need for parental rights and control over educational curricula. The allegations against DeAngelis are particularly damaging, as they undermine the moral high ground that many conservative activists claim to hold.

Several prominent conservative figures have remained silent on the issue, but others within the movement have expressed disappointment. An unnamed source close to the AFC told a credit source that the scandal “threatens to derail much of the work we’ve accomplished,” particularly as the group prepares for key policy battles ahead​.

The Bigger Picture: Hypocrisy and Accountability

The scandal involving DeAngelis raises larger questions about accountability within political movements, particularly those that espouse rigid moral standards. The right-wing’s embrace of DeAngelis and other prominent anti-LGBTQ+ activists has often involved demonizing LGBTQ+ individuals and attacking their rights. Now, with one of their own embroiled in a scandal tied directly to the community they oppose, many are calling for a reevaluation of these hard-line stances​.

This controversy could have lasting repercussions, not only for DeAngelis but also for the broader conservative movement, which has increasingly relied on figures like him to further their ideological goals. As the investigation unfolds, it remains to be seen how the American Federation for Children and other conservative organizations will address the fallout from this explosive revelation.

What’s Next for Corey DeAngelis?

While DeAngelis has yet to publicly address the allegations, his future within the conservative education movement is undoubtedly in jeopardy. As his organization investigates, the scandal continues to generate headlines, drawing attention to the complex intersection of personal actions and public advocacy.

With conservative circles remaining largely silent, the next few weeks will be crucial in determining whether DeAngelis can recover from this scandal—or if his career as a leading anti-LGBTQ+ activist is over for good.

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