Roger Marshall and Jerry Moran proved they don’t respect LGBTQ Kansans’ freedom
Loud and clear
While Jerry Moran will serve another six years as a U.S. senator, Roger Marshall is up for reelection in 2026. We should all keep an eye on how they are voting.
Recently, both senators voted against the Respect for Marriage Act. (Dec. 9, 1A, “House passes same-sex marriage bill despite Hartzler speech”) The legislation, which was ultimately passed by Democrats and some Republicans, will require states to recognize same-sex marriages. Notably, the act does not require states to permit same-sex marriages, as is currently the law under the 2015 Supreme Court case Obergefell v. Hodges, and the act specially allows religious organizations to discriminate against same-sex partners.
Neither Marshall nor Moran would get behind this bipartisan legislation giving limited protection to our LGBTQ community. This is a sad message to send LGBTQ folks who live in Kansas: Your U.S. senators do not believe your right to marry who makes you happy deserves to be protected. In other words, you deserve marriage protections only if you are like Marshall and Moran — straight.
And that two of our most powerful Kansas politicians voted against this legislation provides oxygen to groups who already fuel hatred aimed at LGBTQ folks. I am afraid for my friends in that community.
- Amii Castle, Lawrence
Stadium effects
I have enjoyed reading coverage in The Star about Royals owner John Sherman and his plans for a new stadium. (Dec. 8, 3B, “Royals seek input on proposed downtown ballpark district”) This project would be an excellent asset for the city in terms of generating revenue and creating jobs. However, I worry about the zoning and displacement of people and jobs in the area.
The stadium likely would be built in an area where low-income housing would be affected, and I have not read about any plans for the relocation of those living there or any accommodations to ensure their safety and well-being.
The Center for Social Development at Washington University’s George Warren Brown School of Social Work in St. Louis advocates promoting healthy child development and strong family interactions. Would Kansas City partner with similar programs for this project to ensure this message is still a priority in the community? Did Sherman and his team disclose the plans for the displacement of these individuals for everyone to evaluate?
My current views and concern as a social worker are to ensure those in the community are safe and comfortable with the change.
- Rashonda Pitts, Grandview
Where it goes
In a recent post on the conservative 501(c)(3) nonprofit Heritage Foundation’s website, E.J. Antoni presented his usual rant to cut federal spending and repeal regulations. He says the federal debt limit “should not be granted under any circumstances,” all without providing supporting data, historical context or possible consequences of such actions.
Federal debt has risen during most administrations. Fueled by his 2017 tax cuts, Donald Trump increased the national debt by $7.8 trillion or 39%. Congress raised the debt ceiling three times under Trump. GOP Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell has voted 32 times to raise the debt ceiling.
At home and abroad, the U. S. Treasury plays a central role in financial systems. Without an increase in the debt ceiling, the Treasury would be forced to default on payments of accrued financial obligations, not new spending, thereby, threatening the full faith and credit of the United States — an unprecedented event. Raising the debt ceiling or removing it altogether would prevent the Treasury from defaulting.
After raising the debt ceiling, two solutions emerge: Raise taxes and cut spending. Remove the 2017 tax cuts and audit defense spending. Defense spending consumes more than half of discretionary spending with little accounting for where the money goes. Focus on solutions.
- Angela Schieferecke, Prairie Village
All in a day
No one should be surprised that the city manager would ask why officials can’t just lie to the media. (Dec. 10, 1A, “Mayor responds to claim that city manager lied to media”)
The federal government gets away with it on a daily basis.
- Dan Muldrew, Overland Park
