News

Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger Pledges to Oppose California Marriage Ban

Tells National Gathering of Log Cabin Republicans: "I Will Always Be There to Fight Against That."

April 11, 2008

(San Diego, CA) - Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger (R-CA) today for the first time pledged to oppose a proposed constitutional amendment to ban marriage for same-sex couples in California. In remarks to the Log Cabin Republicans National Convention in San Diego, Schwarzenegger predicted Californians would reject the amendment and said, "I will always be there to fight against that."

"It's a great day for the Republican Party and for all California families," said Log Cabin President Patrick Sammon. "Gov. Schwarzenegger is a strong Log Cabin ally and a great friend for gay and lesbian people. His opposition to any anti-marriage amendment is great news. He will be an important voice against this effort."

Governor Schwarzenegger has twice vetoed same-sex marriage bills, stating the courts or the people should decide the issue. A decision by the California Supreme Court is expected by June 5th. Anti-gay groups are working to gather signatures to put a same-sex marriage constitutional ban on the November ballot.

Schwarzenegger's remarks to Log Cabin members came during a public discussion with Log Cabin President Patrick Sammon about the future of the Republican Party. Sammon asked the governor whether he would oppose the effort to ban same-sex marriage. The governor said, "First of all, I think that it [the marriage ban] will never happen in California. I think that California people are much further along on that issue. And, number two, I will always be there to fight against that. It will never happen."