Senators Donnelly, Heitkamp Endorse Gay Marriage
Two Democrats from Midwestern states came out in favor of gay marriage Friday morning, leaving only four Democratic senators still opposed.
“In speaking with North Dakotans from every corner of our great state, and much personal reflection, I have concluded the federal government should no longer discriminate against people who want to make lifelong, loving commitments to each other or interfere in personal, private, and intimate relationships” North Dakota Senator Heidi Heitkamp said in a statement. “I view the ability of anyone to marry as a logical extension of this belief. The makeup of families is changing, but the importance of family is enduring.”
Illinois Senator Joe Donnelly posted a statement on his Facebook page soon after.
“In recent years, our country has been involved in an important discussion on the issue of marriage equality. While serving in the House of Representatives, I had the opportunity to act on a core belief of mine: we are a stronger country when we draw on the strengths of all Americans. I voted to repeal ‘don’t ask, don’t tell’ and was an original supporter of the bill that would make it illegal to discriminate against someone in the workplace because of their sexual orientation. It is also for that reason that I oppose amending either Indiana’s or our nation’s constitution to enshrine in those documents an ‘us’ and a ‘them,’ instead of a ‘we.’ With the recent Supreme Court arguments and accompanying public discussion of same-sex marriage, I have been thinking about my past positions and votes. In doing so, I have concluded that the right thing to do is to support marriage equality for all.”
Support for gay marriage has come not in a trickle but in a wave over the past with weeks, with Democrats, and even a couple Republicans, both enthusiastically and begrudgingly offering their endorsement. Pressure has mounted on the Democratic senators who have yet to endorse gay marriage over the past few weeks, with progressive groups such as MoveOn.org launching campaigns to push senators to come out in favor. After today’s morning endorsements, only four Democratic senators remain.
Talking Points Memo reports that the remaining four could prove to be tough nuts to crack. Mark Pryor of Arkansas and Mary Landrieu of Louisiana have to face re-election in two of the most conservative states in the country. Joe Manchin of West Virginia might be attracted to the idea of being the lone holdout. Tim Johnson of South Dakota is retiring, so he can do whatever he wants. Regardless, Advocate reports that petitions are up urging these senators to change their stances as well.
Donnelly and Heitkamp are the latest politicians following a shift in public opinion in recent years. For the first time ever, more Americans now support legalizing gay marriage than oppose it.
