New York Democrat Andrew Cuomo says his opponent's comments about homosexuality are reckless in light of recent violence, while Republican Carl Paladino insists he is not anti-gay.

Both candidates for governor spoke while appearing Monday at the Columbus Day Parade in Manhattan.

Paladino says he stands up for the rights of everyone and abhors anti-gay violence. Earlier he said he does not discriminate but thinks young children shouldn't be exposed to "extremists" in gay culture.

On Sunday, Paladino told Orthodox Jewish leaders he doesn't want children "brainwashed into thinking that homosexuality" is just another lifestyle.

Cuomo called Paladino's remarks "reckless and divisive."