News

Log Cabin Republicans Applaud California Supreme Court's Decision on Marriage Equality

Republican Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger Says He Will Uphold This Ruling

May 15, 2008

(Washington, DC) - Log Cabin Republicans applaud today's historic ruling by the Supreme Court of California. In a 4-3 decision, the Court ruled that loving, committed gay and lesbian couples in California cannot be denied a civil marriage license. Republican governors appointed six of the seven justices on the high court.

"We commend the Court for carefully reviewing this case and reaffirming the principles of liberty and justice for all," said Log Cabin Republicans President Patrick Sammon. "This ruling is a conservative one. The justices have ensured that the law treats all Californians fairly and equally," said Sammon. "This decision is a good one for all families-gay and non-gay. Two people in a loving and committed relationship deserve the support and dignity that come with marriage."

Immediately after the Court issued its ruling, Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger (R-CA) issued the following statement: "I respect the Court's decision and as Governor, I will uphold its ruling. Also, as I have said in the past, I will not support an amendment to the constitution that would overturn this state Supreme Court ruling."

In April 2008, Gov. Schwarzenegger publicly opposed any effort to pass a state constitutional amendment banning marriage for same-sex couples. He called such an effort a "total waste of time" and told a national gathering of Log Cabin Republicans "I will always be there to fight against that."

"The California legislature has voted in favor of the freedom to marry, the State Supreme Court has ruled in favor of the freedom to marry and in November, the people likely will have the opportunity to support the freedom to marry by voting against a proposed constitutional ban on marriage," said Sammon.

Opponents of marriage equality are pushing a signature gathering effort to put an anti-gay constitutional amendment on the November ballot. The California Secretary of State is reviewing the signatures. If the state certifies enough signatures, this initiative will go on the November ballot.

"The debate does not end with this decision," said Sammon. "Discussions about the freedom to marry will continue with our families, co-workers and neighbors.

"Marriage is good for all Americans-gay and straight. It promotes values that strengthen society and the family," said Sammon. "Today's ruling shows once again that states are capable of making these decisions on their own, without unnecessary intervention from the federal government. Marriage has always been, and should continue to be, a state issue. This is the essence of federalism.

This ruling by the state Supreme Court does not affect the federal Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA), which prevents any state from having to recognize a marriage performed in another state.