Michael A. Clarke: GOP candidates need a little tutoring

The Republican Fact-Free-Follies have begun. It’s alarming that the claims of so many GOP presidential wannabees lack truthful information. Most of the candidates deny that global warming is caused by humans, disagreeing with 97 percent of climate scientists. A devoutly religious candidate instructed his Pope to not comment on climate change and stick to saving souls, though, unlike the candidate, the Pope has a degree in chemistry.

Another religious fundamentalist rejects evolution, believing the earth is 10,000 years old and an “intelligent planner” is responsible for the plant and animal life we experience. Many candidates masquerade as gynecologists, advocating laws regulating female reproductive lives without consulting women who would be affected. Some act as fetal physicians, claiming aborted embryos experience pain, without any medical evidence for their belief.

Apparently all of the candidates oppose same-sex marriage because the Bible says it’s bad, children raised by same-sex parents are harmed, and same-sex couples aren’t capable of true love. Unfortunately, the Bible is inconsistent, putting eating shellfish and shaving on the same sinful level as “men lying with men.”

Perhaps remedial education and critical thinking should be required for those seeking high office.

This story was originally published June 23, 2015 at 10:52 AM with the headline "Michael A. Clarke: GOP candidates need a little tutoring."