Dallas County Republican Says Most Want Chance to Vote on Definition of Marriage

Editor's Note: Patch published articles Sunday and Monday that examined whether the Iowa GOP should change its stance on gay marriage in order to broaden its election appeal. Today, we have reaction from Dallas County Republican Party Co-Chairman Tyler DeHaan. 

Q. Should the Iowa GOP end efforts to ban gay marriage?

A. I certainly appreciate constructive debates within the GOP. A good healthy debate is a good thing for a political party and helps foster the democratic process in my opinion.

The Republican platform states that marriage is between one man and one woman, though I believe that most Republicans in the State of Iowa would agree that we just want the ability to have a vote on the definition of marriage by the people.

Our Previous Stories:

Will Desire to Gain Voters Prompt Iowa GOP to Change Course on Gay Marriage – Or at Least Muzzle Activists?

Fight Against Gay Marriage? Not if Iowa GOP Wants Young Voters

Q. Does the Iowa GOP need to change its views on gay marriage to win elections?

A. I don't believe that one issue defines a political party. The Republican Party believes firmly in the concepts of limited government, fiscal and personal responsibility, and the principles of the constitution.

One of the things that the GOP needs to get better at is being able to effectively articulate our ideals and principles to the voters. If we are able to effectively communicate our ideals, we will be able to broaden our party's appeal and win elections.