Ex-homophobe and NBA star Tim Hardaway now defending gay rights in El Paso

KVIA reports that the group opposing a recall of El Paso Mayor John Cook and two city representatives for their support of partner benefits for city employees got an endorsement Thursday from an unlikely source: former University of Texas at El Paso superstar and NBA All-Star Tim Hardaway, who once made headlines for saying he "hated gay people."

The IRS has received complaints about the most prominent recall supporter, Tom Brown of the Word of Life Church, who claims he is only prevented from advocating for or against political candidates, not agitating for the removal of elected officials who are not candidates.

After receiving several complaints, El Paso County district attorney Jaime Esparza has started a local investigation of Pastor Tom Brown's political activities, independent of any IRS violations Brown may have committed.

Texas law prohibits corporations (including nonprofit) from making "a political contribution or political expenditure in connection with a recall election, including the circulation and submission of a petition to call an election."

Violations of the law are punishable as a third-degree felony.

According to Tom Brown's website (as of 8/20/11), the following locations continue to provide recall petitions to sign during their regularly scheduled hours of operation during the week. Some may also be in violation of Texas statutes.

Word of Life Church, 11675 Pratt Ave, (915) 855-9673
Jesus Chapel, 111 West Sunset RD, (915) 581-1195
Centro Vida Life Center, 1335 Henry Brennan Drive, (915) 545-5555
Roseanne Rodriguez, 5628 Rosa, (915) 219-9469
LifeGate Church, 10555 Edgemere Boulevard, (915) 593-1122
Arves Automotive, 10105 Dyer, (915) 751-9171
Logos Christian Worship Center, 985 Loma Verde (915) 227-2096
Nacho Padilla, 340 Alvarez Drive, (915) 309-1899
The Blimp, 1301 Texas Street, (915) 351-9593