2016 MO Governor's race: on Civil Rights

Peter Kinder: No federal say over trans-gendered bathroom laws

"By inserting itself into North Carolina's lawmaking, the Obama Justice Department is overstepping its authority in violation of the 10th Amendment to the Constitution. It justifies this overreach by unilaterally redefining federal anti-discrimination law, something only Congress has the authority to do. The Attorney General and her DOJ cohorts are threatening action against North Carolina for the 'crime' of wanting to designate bathrooms in government buildings for men and women only. If the federal government can force states to bow to its command over bathroom policies, is there anything beyond its reach? I stand with North Carolina and Gov. Pat McCrory, to stand up to this federal abuse of power. This issue goes way beyond North Carolina. It is an unprecedented assault on our privacy and safety."

Catherine Hanaway: Support SJR39: Religious liberty trumps gay marriage

Opponents of the proposal say its passage could cost Missouri jobs as businesses and other organizations already are hinting of boycotts. Proponents of the measure say the state Constitution already protects members of the clergy from perming ceremonies that oppose their religious beliefs.

SJR 39 is backed by conservatives because they say it safeguards those who oppose gay marriage. Many Democrats oppose it precisely because they view the measure as a legal permit to discriminate against same-sex couples. Chris Koster, the presumptive Democratic nominee for governor, also opposes SJR 39.

Chris Koster: Oppose SJR39: gay discrimination isn't religious liberty

Opponents of the proposal say its passage could cost Missouri jobs as businesses and other organizations already are hinting of boycotts. Proponents of the measure say the state Constitution already protects members of the clergy from perming ceremonies that oppose their religious beliefs.

SJR 39 is backed by conservatives because they say it safeguards those who oppose gay marriage. Many Democrats oppose it precisely because they view the measure as a legal permit to discriminate against same-sex couples. Chris Koster, the presumptive Democratic nominee for governor, also opposes SJR 39.

Eric Greitens: Anti-gay "religious liberty" amendment threatens jobs

"I don't believe this legislation is the right approach," Greitens said in a statement. "I oppose SJR 39 because I believe that while it is well-intentioned, it could unintentionally threaten our economy and job creation. Here in Missouri, we are already 47th in job growth and 42nd in wage growth. We simply cannot afford more policies from Jeff City that have the potential to kill jobs."

His three rivals for the GOP nomination -- Peter Kinder, Catherine Hanaway and John Brunner -- have all come out in support. Chris Koster, the presumptive Democratic nominee for governor, also opposes SJR 39.

John Brunner: Let clergy choose to decline to perform gay marriages

Opponents of the proposal say its passage could cost Missouri jobs as businesses and other organizations already are hinting of boycotts. Proponents of the measure say the state Constitution already protects members of the clergy from perming ceremonies that oppose their religious beliefs.

SJR 39 is backed by conservatives because they say it safeguards those who oppose gay marriage. Many Democrats oppose it precisely because they view the measure as a legal permit to discriminate against same-sex couples. Chris Koster, the presumptive Democratic nominee for governor, also opposes SJR 39.

Chris Koster: Equality and inclusion should include same-sex couples

Chris Koster: Gay marriage is another step toward inclusion and equality

Missouri Attorney General Chris Koster, a Democrat: "The history of our country has always been one of moving toward inclusion and equality. I applaud the court for their courage and strong sense of fairness. Missourians should be seen as equals under the law; regardless of their gender, race, or whom they love."

Missouri Governor Jay Nixon, a Democrat: "Today's decision in Obergefell v. Hodges is a major victory for equality and an important step toward a fairer and more just society for all Americans. No one should be discriminated against because of who they are or who they love. In the coming days, I will be taking all necessary and appropriate actions to ensure this decision is implemented throughout the state of Missouri."

Missouri Secretary of State Jason Kander, a Democrat: "SCOTUS has spoken! #Equality" (Twitter)

Jay Nixon: Same-sex marriage is a major victory for equality

Missouri Attorney General Chris Koster, a Democrat: "The history of our country has always been one of moving toward inclusion and equality. I applaud the court for their courage and strong sense of fairness. Missourians should be seen as equals under the law; regardless of their gender, race, or whom they love."

Missouri Governor Jay Nixon, a Democrat: "Today's decision in Obergefell v. Hodges is a major victory for equality and an important step toward a fairer and more just society for all Americans. No one should be discriminated against because of who they are or who they love. In the coming days, I will be taking all necessary and appropriate actions to ensure this decision is implemented throughout the state of Missouri."

Missouri Secretary of State Jason Kander, a Democrat: "SCOTUS has spoken! #Equality" (Twitter)

Chris Koster: Judges can allow same-sex marriage despite voter amendment

Koster cited legal reasons to not weigh in. But conservatives smelled politics. They pointed to statements Koster made in June when he announced that he backs same-sex marriage. But he also acknowledged his obligation to "defend the laws of the state of Missouri," including its gay marriage ban, no matter what.

Koster's apparent pivot this month could be the result of the increasing pressure he's under from leaders of his own party.