Respecting Social Values

The Foundations of Freedom

I believe that traditional values are the foundation of freedom in our country. I also believe, as our founding fathers did, that those values are strongest when we do not depend on government to enforce them. I believe separation of church and state has been good for both—though we should not fear individual expressions of faith in the public realm. I also believe the right to bear arms is essential for our freedom.

Life and Choice

I believe in allowing a woman to choose, though I do not personally favor abortion. I believe the issue is a question of life, though I do not believe it is the federal government’s role to decide when life begins. Therefore, I oppose both federal bans on abortion as well as federal funding for abortions. I believe there is greater scope for state regulation of abortion, which ought not preclude abortion when the mother’s life is in danger, and in cases of rape or incest. I oppose partial birth abortion because there is little evidence that it is ever medically necessary. I believe that government ought to support alternatives to abortion, such as adoption.

Marriage

I personally believe marriage is between one man and one woman, yet I feel states should be able to allow same-sex marriage if their voters choose to do so through law or referendum. I support civil unions and equal benefits at the federal level for same-sex couples. I believe the military should adopt an inclusive approach towards gays and lesbians, and that Congress should defer to the judgment of our armed forces about how best to do so. I also support non-discrimination laws at the federal level.