Again, A Republican Stands In The Way

Gay Marriage in Vermont is “This Close”

Rejoice! Vermont’s Senate just approved gay marriage! The gay marriage bill is expected to pass Vermont’s House this week. All that stands in the way of gay marriage in Vermont, the first state that would enable gay marriage legislatively, is Republican Governor Jim Douglas. Earlier this month, Douglas said, there is no time for “divisive issues” like same-sex marriage this spring. Douglas has stated he is against gay marriage. Vermont would be the third state, all in the Northeast, that allows same-sex marriage. 

Douglas won re-election to his fourth term as governor in November. Despite a constituency that favors gay marriage by 58% to 39%, a veto will not affect his standing. He can do as he pleases, and, if need be, hide behind the economy. Business leaders in Vermont, however, favor gay marriage, and believe it will help their economy. 

So, what reason would Douglas have if the citizens of Vermont and its business leaders, as well as its House and Senate, favor gay marriage? If it’s not public opinion, the legislature, or business leaders, what reason could he have? It  must be a “moral” one. Douglas has said he believes marriage should be restricted to traditional marriage.

Currently, the California State Supreme Court is debating overturning the ban on gay marriage that Proposition 8 enabled. Later this week the New Hampshire legislature will vote on gay marriage. Also later this month, the Iowa State Supreme Court is expected to deliver a ruling in Varnum vs. Brien, which will effectively allow gay marriage if the plaintiffs win their case. 

(photo: NationalGovernorsAssociation)