“I think you know there are a lot of white folks out there who are not necessarily racist who felt uncomfortable for the first time in their lives about whether or not they wanted to vote for an African-American,” the senator said of the Florida governor’s race

“I have spoken about my upbringing. I was raised in a very socially conservative household, with views and beliefs and things I no longer hold today. Like most of the country my views have evolved, to the point where now you can look to my record over the last six years in Congress, that reflect what’s in my heart and my commitment to fighting for equality, my commitment to fighting for LGBT rights.”

Gabbard also seemed, however, to make a potential misstep. Asked about reports she would face a challenger for her House seat if she does not make it to the White House, the candidate for the presidency told CNN: “I’m not thinking about politics right now.”