Why is John Danforth still a Republican?

John C. Danforth is one Missouri’s most admired — and least astute — politicians.

The former U.S. senator and ambassador to the United Nations has criticized the Republican Party for transforming itself into the “political arm of conservative Christians.” His observations carry weight. Danforth is both a Republican and an ordained Episcopal priest.

But at some point, Danforth may need to recognize that his membership in the GOP is just plain silly.

Danforth spoke recently at the Center for Practical Bioethics in Kansas City. His address opened by criticizing Rush Limbaugh for rooting for President Obama to fail. Danforth went on to lament the emphasis on hot-button issues, including “gay marriage, abortion, proposals to criminalize certain stem cell research, politicizing end of life decisions and the public use of religion.”

Gee, Jack. Which party uses all the issues you just mention to stir up the base?