Every election, political parties meet at every level to decide on what their platform will be. A platform is a handy, basic set of statements that tell what the values of the party are, and helps non-party members decide which one is the best fit for them. Everyone knows about the national conventions, which are like Mardi Gras for political junkies. The real meat of a party, though, is at the state level. these are the politicians and other folks who most directly impact your life; these are the ones who make laws that affect 90% of your everyday life. These politicians get their orders from the state party platform. To be able to run for office and get ANY kind of support from the party, they have to "kiss the ring" and toe the line on the platform.
So, if you want to see what Republicans want to accomplish in, say, Texas, just take a peek at the new platform they passed at the state convention a few days ago. Some highlights:
1. Family and Defense of Marriage ― We support the definition of marriage as a God-ordained, legal and moral commitment only between a natural man and a natural woman, which is the foundational unit of a healthy society, and we oppose the assault on marriage by judicial activists. We call on the President and Congress to take immediate action to defend the sanctity of marriage. We are resolute that Congress exercise authority under the United States Constitution, and pass legislation withholding jurisdiction from the Federal Courts in cases involving family law, especially any changes in the definition of marriage. We further call on Congress to pass and the state legislatures to ratify a marriage amendment declaring that marriage in the United States shall consist of and be recognized only as the union of a natural man and a natural woman. Neither the United States nor any state shall recognize or grant to any unmarried person the legal rights or status of a spouse. We oppose the recognition of and granting of benefits to people who represent themselves as domestic partners without being legally married.
2. Homosexuality
― We affirm that the practice of homosexuality tears at the fabric of society and contributes to the breakdown of the family unit. Homosexual behavior is contrary to the fundamental, unchanging truths that have been ordained by God, recognized by our country’s founders, and shared by the majority of Texans.
Homosexuality must not be presented as an acceptable "alternative" lifestyle, in public policy, nor should "family" be redefined to include homosexual "couples." We believe there should be no granting of special legal entitlements or creation of special status for homosexual behavior, regardless of state of origin. Additionally, we oppose any criminal or civil penalties against those who oppose homosexuality out of faith, conviction or belief in traditional values. 3. Enforcement of the Defense of Marriage Act ― We support the enforcement of the State and Federal Defense of Marriage Act by state and federal officials respectively, and oppose creation, recognition and benefits for partnerships outside of marriage that are being provided by some political subdivisions.
And it isn't just gay people, either! Straights aren't safe from their clutches. Whether you enjoy a good Playboy now and then, or just need to divorce that sumbitch who beats you every night after he comes home drunk, they know what's best for you and by God you will live the way THEY want you to!
But don't take my word for it. Go read it for yourself on their website: http://www.tfn.org/site/DocServer/2012-Platform-Final.pdf?docID=3201
Thanks to Andy Towle at Towleroad for helping highlight this (http://www.towleroad.com/2012/06/the-republican-party-of-texas-really-hates-gay-people.html.) Remember, all that's necesary for these sick people to keep winning is for good people to sit back and do nothing!
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