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DOMA Repeal Vote Shows Work Remains To Be Done

November 10, 2011

(Washington, DC)  – Log Cabin Republicans statement on the Senate Judiciary Committee's vote on the Respect for Marriage Act, which if passed would repeal the so-called "Defense of Marriage" Act and permit the federal government to recognize legally sanctioned same-sex relationships in the states.

"Today's hearing in the Senate Judiciary Committee makes clear what we already knew  – that while the nation is fast approaching a tipping point in favor of respecting all marriages, we are not there yet," said R. Clarke Cooper, Log Cabin Republicans Executive Director. "There is much work to be done before we cross the finish line. Today's hearing was a principled discussion about the meaning of federalism, the priorities of our nation in a challenging time, and what marriage means in America today. Passing the Respect for Marriage Act will require determined and strategic outreach to leaders on both sides of the aisle, and the courageous leadership of more Republicans like Congresswoman Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-FL), who has already signed on to DOMA repeal. More than that, it will require gay and lesbian Americans in lawmakers' home districts speaking out about their families, their commitment to one another as spouses, and the shared values that make marriage important to us all. More than any hearing, these kitchen table conversations will move us toward the day when all married couples are treated equally under the law."