The intimate setting Tuesday lent itself for a frank discussion between U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran and his constituents.
Instead, the senator chose to play the blame game now so common between Republicans and Democrats that it’s the norm.
The senator’s visit drew a small crowd, maybe 35. To a one they were an amiable bunch eager to learn the esteemed senator’s opinions on pressing matters.
A seasoned speaker, Sen. Moran warmed up the gathering with the standard jokes about representing the hinterland. This time, he recalled when he was still a U.S. representative and Rep. Rosa DeLauro of Connecticut asked him what exactly a farmer does.
From there, the senator talked about his efforts to expand U.S. trade with Cuba and to improve the health care services for U.S. veterans.
“If we can’t sell Cuba wheat, then France will,” he said.
Sen. Moran remains clearly frustrated by the inability of veterans to receive health care in a timely manner and has made it his signature legislation to see they can do so in facilities close to home.
Both examples helped paint a clear picture of Sen. Moran putting Kansas first.
But then, things got murky.
When it came to answering questions, the senator deftly steered clear.
Would he support Donald Trump if he were the Republican presidential nominee?
“I never reveal who I vote for, but there are things I wish Mr. Trump wouldn’t say.”
Would you meet with Judge Garland Merrick, the nominee to the U.S. Supreme Court?
That ship has sailed, he intimated.
(In March, Sen. Moran bravely broke with the Republican ranks to suggest they allow hearings on the nominee. A week later, he did an about-face.)
