There is much more to this than a superstitious and doctrinally suspect adherence to Old Testament law. Homophobia is the entire basis of society in much of hinterland America, the glue that holds the system together. I wrote about this a couple of years ago:

The acceptance of homosexuality in the military is literally the end of the world for many on the right, since it undermines the whole power and control structure of their culture, especially the ability to control and manipulate the young. When I was a teenager in rural California, you were suspected of that ultimate crime, being a fag, if you:

-Refused to sacrifice your body and your spare time for the benefit of the local high school football team.
-Thought science and art might be a better bet than manual labor for improving your family’s financial status.
-Tended to speak out against brutish coaches and abusive bosses.
-Thought a VW bug was a more rational choice than a muscle car or a pickup.
-Refused to adopt the approved standards of grooming and dress.
-Questioned the historical authenticity of certain religious claims.

There are many more. Homophobia is so important because it is a primary weapon against non-conformity.

FREEDOM FOR GAYS IS FREEDOM FOR EVERYONE.