Journalist Yashar Ali has drawn attention to the challenging position of prominent Scientologist Grant Cardone, alleging a significant conflict between Cardone's high-ranking status within the Church of Scientology and the organization's stringent anti-gay doctrines. Ali, known for his critical stance on Scientology, highlighted the church's deeply homophobic views, which he claims consider homosexuality one of the gravest transgressions.
In a recent social media post, Ali stated, "Scientology requires gay members to undergo a form of conversion therapy. Scientologists believe that a gay person is better off dead and returning to earth in a different body. Scientology is so deeply homophobic it makes the Westboro Baptist Church look accepting." This assertion underscores the severity of the church's position on LGBTQ+ issues.
The tweet further suggested that Cardone, whom Ali described as "arguably the third most powerful Scientologist with Tom Cruise being the second," would face internal scrutiny from a Scientology "ethics officer" regarding his public image or actions in light of these beliefs. Grant Cardone and his wife, Elena Cardone, are recognized as significant figures within Scientology, reportedly contributing substantial funds and actively recruiting new members.
Cardone, a well-known real estate investor and motivational speaker, often appears in public forums and has spoken at high-profile events. His public persona and business dealings contrast sharply with the insular and often controversial practices attributed to the Church of Scientology, particularly its stance on social issues like homosexuality. The implications of this alleged conflict for Cardone's standing within the church and his public image remain a subject of discussion.