Confession time, folks:

You might remember that back in the ‘90s, Tipper Gore, wife of Vice President Al Gore, led a national censorship push against certain types of music, art, and film.

As a big rap fan, I wasn’t too happy about that. So, in an admittedly ill-advised act of youthful rebellion, I voted for George H.W. Bush in ’92 and Bob Dole in ’96.

I don’t have many regrets, but those votes certainly make the short list.

But it's surprising to look back on now. Not trusting people to make their own judgements about what sorts of art they can enjoy? That sounds like a very Republican idea to me today.

Because truth be told, in the past thirty years, my views haven’t changed all that much.

• I’m still against censoring art.
• I’m against banning books in schools and public libraries because they don’t align perfectly with my political views.
• I’m against weaponizing government control over private businesses because they’re too “woke.”
• I’m against telling women that politicians will make their medical decisions for them.
• And I’m especially against telling folks who they can love, how they should raise their kids, and what they can believe.

Here’s what I’m for: A government that accepts science, respects the democratic process, and recognizes our diverse tapestry of political views, ways of life, religious beliefs, and cultures as an asset, not a threat.

I’m for a government that works hard every day to solve the issues that actually matter.

So if you’re with me, will you pitch in $10 to help me defend decency, accountability, and truth in Washington?

Yours,
Sean Casten