GOP FAIL

From the newly approved draft Republican Party Platform:

Marriage

The Institution of marriage is the foundation of civil society. Its success as an institution will determine our success as a nation. It has been proven by both experience and endless social science studies that marriage is best for children. Children raised in intact married families are more likely to attend college, and are physically and emotionally healthier, are less likely to use drugs or alcohol, are less like to to engage in crime, and are less likely to get pregnant outside of marriage. The success of marriage directly impacts the economic wellbeing of individuals. Furthermore, the future of marriage affects freedom. The lack of family formation not only leads to more government costs, but also more government control over the lives of its citizens in all facets. We recognize and honor the courageous efforts of those who bear the many burdens of parenting alone..

Yes, yes, and yes! Intact married families (even those whose married status isn’t completely honored – it’s that powerful a social institution) provide children with the stability and safety they need to thrive, and provide the marriage partners with not only the psychological benefits of romantic partnership but with the security of knowing they will take care of each other in times of need and not have to rely as much on other family members or the public sector.

Then, the subcommittee goes off the rails and contradicts everything they just said:

..even as we believe that marriage, the union of one man and one woman must be upheld as a national standard, a goal to stand for, encourage, and promote through laws governing marriage.

Whoops. So much for encouraging intact married families. I guess they didn’t really mean it. Nor, apparently, do they mean this:

We embrace the principle that all Americans should be treated with respect and dignity.

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