Jason Kander on Civil Rights

SCOTUS has spoken: support gay marriage nationwide

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)

Raised $100,000 via nonprofit initiative #FergusonRebuild

Strengthen anti-human trafficking laws

Protect GLBT employees under nondiscrimination policy

"This is the right thing to do. Hiring and advancement decisions should be about an employee's performance and their potential, and I think we can all agree on that," Kander said. "An employee's sexual orientation should have no bearing on those types of decisions."

When he was a member of the Missouri House in 2011, the Democrat supported the Missouri Nondiscrimination Act, which did not pass the legislature. Kander says such legislation would not only benefit LGBT employees but also companies and employers. "They're good for any organization," Kander said. "They boost morale, increase retention, and allow us, as an employer, to better compete for talent."