Profiles in Courage: John Danforth

Not to be missed: Former Senator John Danforth, in today's New York Times

Once again, the heroic Episcopalian minister and distinguished Republican from Missouri, takes on the extremism of the Christian Right. Last time he wrote for the Op-Ed page of the Times, he urged the GOP to abandon the radicalism that had led the party to become an extension of a single religious group.

Danforth is no liberal and he is no pagan attacking the church. He is one of the very few men and women of courage who have stood up to protest the theocratic impulse of the Bush-Rove GOP.

Not because he disrespects the beliefs and values of Christians, but because he respects the traditions and values of our pluralistic American culture, and he recognized that secular governance and politics are essential to enabling people of all faiths and beliefs (including unbelief) to share equally and freely in the benefits of a free society.

Thanks to oceanmrc for bringing Danforth's article to my attention.

I have every confidence that the GOP will return to its senses someday, but for now, John Danforth is an incredibly rare example of a dying breed of moderate Republicans. He stands as a reminder that eventually, the polarization of American politics will come to an end.

I hope that day comes soon.

Neil

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