To the editor:

Kudos to Robert Evans Sr. for giving voice to an important message (“Party plaint,” Public Forum, March 20).  Yes, indeed, what has happened to the Grand Old Party we once paid heed to and respected? The modern day conservative heart has been frozen solid for a number of years and only thaws slightly when a close family member is affected. 

Sen. Rob Portman and Dick Cheney would surely oppose same sex marriage if their children were not involved. A Republican senator only became an advocate of mental health clinics when his son committed suicide, and those who are opponents of abortion in all cases will change their minds once a daughter is a victim of rape or a life-threatening pregnancy.

Sadly, it might take a horrific personal tragedy at a school, theater, restaurant or shopping center for a legislator to give some thought to enacting sensible gun laws. Let me assure you, however, that once that tragedy strikes close to home, you will never forgive yourself. That’s something for our Kansas delegates to think about before they cast their votes.