In a surprising and heartfelt announcement, Newsmax anchor Rob Schmitt has publicly come out as a member of the LGBTQ+ community, revealing that he is in a relationship with a younger partner. The 42-year-old conservative television personality, known for hosting Rob Schmitt Tonight, shared the news in a candid Instagram post in early August 2025, coinciding with ongoing discussions about representation in media. This revelation marks a significant moment for Schmitt, whose private life has long been the subject of speculation, and it has sparked widespread conversation about visibility and acceptance within conservative circles.

Schmitt, born on August 13, 1983, in Carmel, Indiana, has built a notable career in broadcast journalism, with stints at Fox News, CBS Los Angeles, and WNBC-TV before joining Newsmax in 2020. His nightly program, which debuted in December 2020, has become one of the network’s top-rated shows, drawing millions with its unapologetically conservative perspective. Despite his public persona, Schmitt has kept his personal life largely under wraps, often dodging questions about his relationship status. However, his recent announcement has shed light on a side of the anchor that fans and critics alike were eager to understand.

In his Instagram post, Schmitt expressed pride in his identity, writing, “I’ve spent years focusing on my work, but it’s time to share who I am. I’m gay, and I’m grateful to be in a loving relationship with someone who brings joy to my life.” He introduced his partner, identified only as “Elliot,” a 32-year-old graphic designer based in New York City. The post included a photo of the couple at a Hamptons beach, smiling warmly, with Schmitt’s caption emphasizing authenticity: “Living my truth feels liberating, and I hope it inspires others to do the same.”

The announcement comes after years of rumors about Schmitt’s sexuality, fueled by a 2014 Instagram post from a massage therapist named Enrique Ramirez, who referred to Schmitt as his “boyfriend” with a gay hashtag. At the time, Schmitt did not address the speculation, leaving it as an unconfirmed rumor. Similarly, a 2021 DataLounge thread claimed Schmitt had lived with a boyfriend in Miami Beach before moving to New York, but no concrete evidence emerged. His decision to come out now appears to be a deliberate step toward transparency, possibly influenced by the evolving cultural landscape and growing acceptance of diverse identities, even in conservative media.

Schmitt’s revelation has elicited mixed reactions. Supporters on social media platforms like X have praised his courage, with one user posting, “Rob Schmitt coming out is a game-changer for conservative media. It’s about time we see more authenticity in this space.” Others within the LGBTQ+ community have lauded his visibility, noting that his platform as a Newsmax host could foster greater acceptance. However, some conservative viewers have expressed disappointment, citing Schmitt’s past criticism of initiatives like the National Gay Flag Football League, which he called “divisive” on his show in June 2024. During that segment, Schmitt questioned the need for such a league, sparking backlash from progressive outlets like PinkNews. His comments then seemed at odds with his personal identity, which he now acknowledges was a source of internal conflict.

In a follow-up interview with Newsmax, Schmitt addressed this tension, saying, “My views on certain issues were shaped by my environment, but I’ve grown to understand the importance of inclusion. Coming out doesn’t change my core beliefs, but it adds perspective.” He emphasized that his relationship with Elliot, which began in early 2024, has been a grounding force. The couple reportedly met at a charity golf event in East Hampton, where Schmitt resides part-time. Their 10-year age gap has drawn some attention, but sources close to Schmitt describe Elliot as a creative and supportive partner who complements the anchor’s high-energy lifestyle.

The couple’s plans remain private, but Schmitt has hinted at a future focused on balance. “Elliot and I enjoy simple things—weekends in Wainscott, playing golf, or just relaxing by the pool,” he shared in his post. This aligns with Schmitt’s known hobbies, as he frequently posts about golfing at venues like Trump National Golf Club. Unlike other high-profile media couples, such as Sean Hannity and Ainsley Earhardt, who are planning a private wedding, Schmitt has not indicated any immediate plans for marriage. Instead, he seems content to embrace this new chapter openly while maintaining some boundaries around his personal life.

Schmitt’s coming out also highlights the challenges of navigating identity in conservative media, where traditional values often dominate. His announcement follows a broader trend of public figures embracing authenticity, even in politically polarized spaces. For instance, his former Fox News colleague, Guy Benson, has been openly gay for years, paving the way for others in similar circles. Schmitt’s decision could encourage more dialogue about diversity within Newsmax’s audience, which has historically leaned right.

As Schmitt continues to host Rob Schmitt Tonight, his announcement is likely to influence his on-air presence, potentially softening his approach to social issues. Fans are eager to see how he balances his conservative commentary with his newfound openness. For now, Schmitt appears focused on his relationship and career, with Elliot by his side. “I’m not here to preach,” he said in his interview. “I just want to be honest about who I am and keep doing the work I love.”

This moment marks a turning point for Schmitt, whose journey from privacy to openness resonates with many. His story underscores the power of living authentically, even in the face of public scrutiny, and sets a precedent for greater representation in conservative media.