Justice Moore has already begun his inquisition. This past February, he drafted an opinion in a child-custody case blasting gay and lesbian parents who just want to be with their children. In the decision, which quotes the Bible several times, Moore asserted that homosexuality is “detestable and an abominable sin.” Even more alarmingly, he wrote that the state must use “the power of the sword” — including the power of “execution” — to stop gays and lesbians from influencing our youth.

From the Taliban, we might expect words like these. From a public official who wields power in the name of all the people — whether they be believers or nonbelievers, straight or gay — they are shocking.

“The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil,” wrote Edmund Burke, the British statesman who pleaded the cause of the American colonists in Parliament, “is for good men to do nothing.” The next time an elected official seeks political power by wrapping himself in religion or demonizing unpopular groups, I hope men and women of good conscience will rise up in indignation.

–by Morris Dees, “Win over demagoguery saddens,” http://www.montgomeryadvertiser.com/NEWS/StoryOpinionedvoice1119web.htm”