We don't have a problem with you, Senator Santorum. We have a problem with what you believe in.

If this statement sounds illogical, it's because it is. It doesn't make sense to say that we support the senator while also saying we don't support his core values.

This is the kind of double talk Sen. Rick Santorum, R-Pa., has engaged in recently. In an interview with The Associated Press, he said he does not have a problem with homosexuals, just homosexual acts. This is not only offensive, but it also doesn't make sense.

Penn State lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender students traveled to Harrisburg on Tuesday to rally for a new amendment that would guarantee equal rights for all people in areas such as the workplace and in housing. While in the capitol, they took time out to question the senator's remarks.

As rally attendee Kamilah Cole (sophomore-journalism) pointed out, Santorum has the right to his own opinions. But as senator, he must represent his constituents.

We do not feel represented by Santorum's comments.

Several months ago, Sen. Trent Lott, R-Miss., was widely criticized for praising Strom Thurmond's segregationist platform in the 1948 presidential election. Lott later stepped down as Republican leader of the Senate because of the comments.

Though Santorum has been criticized by some, he has not faced the same widespread outrage as Lott. He should. Bashing homosexuals should be no less contemptible than making racial slurs.

All Penn State students should strongly voice their disdain for Santorum's comments, not just members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community.

It is everyone's responsibility to take a stance when fellow Americans' rights are threatened. By saying that homosexuals should not be free to have sex as they choose, Santorum is doing just that.

As an elected official, Santorum must consider constituent complaints or face not being re-elected. As a large and potentially powerful part of his constituency, Penn State students need to seize this potential and let Santorum know his discriminatory beliefs will not be tolerated.