I admire Sam Brownback. In an era when ‘Catholic’ politicians disingenuously peddle the ‘personally opposed’ hogwash or make illogical and unethical exceptions for rape and incest, the Republican Senator and presidential candidate stands up for life. Period.

In a speech before the National Catholic Men’s Conference, Brownback took the issue straight on:

“Rape is terrible. Rape is awful. Is it made any better by killing an innocent child? Does it solve the problem for the woman that’s been raped?”
…
“We need to protect innocent life. Period.”

These are not easy things to say in the midst of a presidential campaign. Most politicians prefer nuance, dissembling, or avoidance. The good Senator prefers the truthful approach. An approach that says, “This is what my conscience, a conscience informed by my faith, dictates. We must stand up for life. If you agree with me, vote for me.”

These days we look for many things in a candidate. Are they good looking? Do they have money and can they raise more? Can they speak well and stay on message? Well, Brownback has one feature that is often overlooked these days. He is forthright, honest, and direct. In short, he is a man. I wish we had more of them.