Kelley Turner: Why I’m an LDS Democrat

I am an LDS Democrat because I try to follow the example of the Savior, and his love, kindness, compassion, respect and grace for all of God's children

Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?

I’m retired, currently living in Colorado.

Why are you an LDS Democrat?

I am an LDS Democrat because I try to follow the example of the Savior, and his love, kindness, compassion, respect and grace for all of God's children, not just those who fit in the twisted and narrow box of Christian Nationalism.

Can you share how your political orientation has changed over time?

Yes. I was a moderate Republican until Trump, but never straight-ticket Republican. As a child, I grew up in rural Georgia in the 1960's, when Southern Democrats were the party of the KKK and white Southern Baptists. My father's family had a cross burnt in our front yard and our dog was shot and killed because my mother refused to follow the “rules” for our Black Nannies. At 6 years old, this left such an incredible mark on my heart. When I watched the Republican party turn into those same people, who did what they did to me and my family, and Trump being nothing of what we are counseled to look for in a leader, I decided I could no longer be a part of that.

What are some political issues you care most about, and why?

Women's rights, LGBTQ rights, Social security, programs that help the poor, needy and homeless. Immigrants. Really, all of the issues are important to me.

How do you consider your political positions a reflection of your faith?

I am a Democrat because of my faith!

Are there any experiences you would like to share about how you have been personally affected by the actions of the new administration?

My husband and I are retired and live on a little retirement, but most of our income comes from SSI, as he worked for the State of California for 25 years; we also owned a home business for 20 years and paid a lot into SSI.

I was horribly maimed by a doctor in 1991, resulting in a permanent colostomy. If we lose our SSI and Medicare income, even though we are debt free, within a year, we would be homeless and I would be wearing a Walmart bag, duct taped to my body to collect body waste. Simply put, we can't afford the cost of those supplies that Medicare pays for.

Is there anything else you would like to share?

In 1999, after I took my HMO to court, Senator Hatch— whose daughter was a close friend—and Senator Kennedy sent me to Washington DC to tell my story, to help pass a right to sue your HMO.