Republican Presidential Hopeful Rick Santorum Says Gays 'Cheapen' Marriage

Antigay former U.S. senator Rick Santorum repeated familiar talking points Monday night at an appearance in Iowa, saying extension of marriage rights to gay couples undermines the institution of marriage as well as religious faith.

“The reason the Left has gone after same-sex marriage is because it’s a two-fer,” Santorum, who is campaigning for the Republican presidential nomination, said at the Lyon County Republican dinner in Rock Rapids. “When you redefine marriage, you cheapen marriage. You make it into something less valuable, less special ... [and] it is a sure bet that will undermine faith.”

Iowa’s early presidential caucus makes the state a popular stop for those seeking the nomination. Santorum and Iowa congressman Steve King, who spoke at the dinner as well, also denounced government assistance programs, The Des Moines Register reports.

Santorum said Americans “are now co-dependent with the federal government, and that is the end of America.” King said President Obama’s health care reform plan “diminishes the future destiny of a people who took care of themselves ... and didn’t ask the government to solve our problems.” Santorum closed his speech by asking his audience, “Please join me in saving America.”

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