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By MICHAEL FALCONE (@michaelpfalcone) and AMY WALTER (@amyewalter)
NOTABLES:
- EVOLVE AND EMBRACE: President Obama put to rest the speculation and publicly expressed support for same-sex marriage in a conversation with ABC’s Robin Roberts at the White House yesterday. But, as ABC’s Political Director Amy Walter points out, “This is a personal decision but one that doesn’t come with a political agenda.”
- HISTORIC INTERVIEW: Watch the full interview and read the transcript of Robin Roberts’ sit-down with President Obama: http://abcn.ws/ILfug5
- OH, OHIO! It’s going to be a roller-coaster of a presidential race in this critical swing state, according to the latest Quinnipiac University poll that shows President Obama and Mitt Romney in a statistical dead heat. Would choosing Ohio Sen. Rob Portman as his running mate help or hurt Romney’s chances in the Buckeye state?
- NOTE IT! ABC’s Jake Tapper notes that there’s no question about it – the White House is “irritated” that Vice President Joe Biden forced the president’s hand on gay marriage and Rick Klein weighs in on why Mitt Romney’s response to yesterday’s news was “remarkably tame.”
THE NOTE:
Instead of dancing on the head of a pin — and looking like the crassest form of a politician in doing so — President Obama said what friends and foes alike already believed was his true stance on the issue.
This was a shock to no one.
But yesterday, in an exclusive interview at the White House with ABC’s Robin Roberts, the president offered support for same-sex marriage without specifics.
“I’ve just concluded that for me personally it is important for me to go ahead and affirm that I think same sex couples should be able to get married,” the President Obama told Roberts. http://abcn.ws/JZQFkq
This is a personal decision but one that doesn’t come with a political agenda. No bill will be offered. No Department of Justice action will be taken. The fight does not get engaged.
There is bigger upside in motivating the base — especially younger people — than in motivating those on the other side. And, there’s no incentive for presumptive Republican nominee Mitt Romney to push this. Any day that he’s talking about anything other than “how bad the economy is under President Obama” is a wasted one.
African-American voters are much less supportive than any other segment of the Democratic constituency, but, this issue will not diminish their support for the first African-American president and their desire to see him re-elected.
This may only further alienate Obama from rural, older white voters. But, for the ones motivated more by the economy than social issues, gay marriage will not determine their vote in November.
The one state where some Democrats and Republicans believe it could hurt Obama is North Carolina. White voters already view him skeptically there and yesterday’s announcement could push them over the edge.
But, the race for the White House is going to be won or lost in the suburbs of northern Virginia, Denver, and Philadelphia. And in these places gay marriage is a non-issue.
CAMPAIGNING ON SAME-SEX MARRIAGE. The Obama campaign moved quickly to amplify President Obama’s public support for same-sex marriage, starting with a fundraising message sent last night in the president’s name: “I was asked a direct question and gave a direct answer: I believe that same-sex couples should be allowed to marry,” he wrote. He also appealed to his supporters to “stand with me” by providing their names and e-mail addresses and donate to the campaign.
This morning the Obama campaign unveiled a new web video titled: “Mitt Romney: Backwards on Equality,” which highlights the differences between Obama’s stance on same-sex marriage and that of Mitt Romney, who has expressed support for a constitutional amendment defining marriage as between a man and a woman. The video features a clip of Romney at a Republican primary debate, saying: “Calling it marriage creates a whole host of problems for families, for the law for the practice of religion, for education. Let me say this, 3,000 years of human history shouldn’t be discarded so quickly.” The words: “President Obama is moving us forward,” flash on the screen. “Mitt Romney would take us back.” WATCH: http://bit.ly/J2Q510
So what does President Obama’s support for gay marriage mean for 2012? ABC News Political Director Amy Walter surveyed a gaggle of smart pollsters — Democrat and Republican — and found the following: http://abcn.ws/K0jqxe
–Not Much: One GOP pollster summed it up this way: “Voters who are strongly against gay marriage — that is, voters who would allow a candidate’s support for gay marriage to determine their vote — are not going to vote for the president anyway.” A Democratic pollster said this: “From a purely political calculation … it is even or a slight net plus” for the president in 2012.
–Helps Fire Up the Democratic Base: “He should come out in support of gay marriage, and at least get some credit from his liberal base,” said a Republican strategist. A Democratic pollster emails: “I do believe this is a great stroke for the base, insiders and funders.”
–Hurts Obama in Southern/Rural States and With Working Class Voters: A GOP pollster says, ”He fires up the left, writes off N.C., and makes Va. more problematic.” A Democratic pollster who does a lot of work in the South agrees that it could hurt Obama’s chances to win Virginia, Florida and North Carolina. It may also have a negative impact for Obama in Rust Belt states like Pennsylvania and Ohio.
THE INTERVIEW: In the interview with ABC’s Robin Roberts yesterday, President Obama described his thought process as an “evolution” that led him to this decision, based on conversations with his staff members, openly gay and lesbian service members, and his wife and daughters. http://abcn.ws/JZQFkq
‘I THINK ABOUT MEMBERS OF MY OWN STAFF’ “I have to tell you that over the course of several years as I have talked to friends and family and neighbors, when I think about members of my own staff who are in incredibly committed monogamous relationships, same-sex relationships, who are raising kids together; when I think about those soldiers or airmen or marines or sailors who are out there fighting on my behalf and yet feel constrained, even now that ‘don’t ask, don’t tell’ is gone, because they are not able to commit themselves in a marriage, at a certain point I’ve just concluded that for me personally it is important for me to go ahead and affirm that I think same sex couples should be able to get married,” Obama told Roberts.
‘THE KIND OF THING THAT PROMPTS A CHANGE’ “It’s interesting, some of this is also generational,” the president noted. “You know when I go to college campuses, sometimes I talk to college Republicans who think that I have terrible policies on the economy, on foreign policy, but are very clear that when it comes to same-sex equality or, you know, sexual orientation, that they believe in equality. They are much more comfortable with it. You know, Malia and Sasha, they have friends whose parents are same-sex couples. There have been times where Michelle and I have been sitting around the dinner table and we’re talking about their friends and their parents and Malia and Sasha, it wouldn’t dawn on them that somehow their friends’ parents would be treated differently. It doesn’t make sense to them and, frankly, that’s the kind of thing that prompts a change in perspective.”
VIDEO:
–Obama Cites ‘Winds of Change’ in Same-Sex Marriage Shift: http://bit.ly/K4R56G
–Obama: Foiled al Qaeda Plot Not a Surprise: http://abcn.ws/JY6L9H
–Obama Calls Romney Auto Bailout Claim an ‘Etch-a-Sketch Moment’: http://abcn.ws/JY6zHv
Watch the full interview and read the transcript of Robin Roberts’ interview with President Obama: http://abcn.ws/ILfug5
NOTE IT!
ABC’s JAKE TAPPER on the White House’s view of Joe Biden: “They are irritated; don’t let anyone fool you on that. And gay rights groups are giving Joe Biden credit for the president’s ‘evolution’ on as if he were Charles Darwin. But the fact of the matter is, the vice president — this is a gaffe by him.” WATCH: http://abcn.ws/IEGsqS
ABC’s RICK KLEIN: Among the flood of angry statements from Republicans yesterday, Mitt Romney’s reaction — calling same-sex marriage a “tender and sensitive topic” about which “other people have differing views” — was remarkably tame. But that’s likely to be the calm before the storm. Attacks on President Obama’s new position are likely to come from outside groups; count the days until a SuperPAC organizes around the issue. This was one of those rare moments where the presidency allowed the president to look, well, presidential. But nothing bold in politics is truly risk-free.
ALL TIED UP IN OHIO. According to a new Quinnipiac University poll out this morning, President Obama and Mitt Romney are running neck-and-neck in the crucial battleground state with Obama receiving 45 percent support to Romney’s 44 percent. Would picking Ohio Sen. Rob Portman to be his running mate help Mitt Romney? Here’s what today’s poll says: “The Romney-Portman v. Obama-Biden matchup compares to a February 15 survey in which Obama had 46 percent to Romney’s 44 percent without running mates, moving to Obama-Biden at 47 percent to Romney-Portman at 43 percent. ‘Adding Sen. Rob Portman to the Romney ticket produces no measurable change, despite speculation about Portman’s potential for helping Romney carry the key state of Ohio,’ said Peter A. Brown, assistant director of the Quinnipiac University Polling institute.” http://bit.ly/JiIUVw
THE BUZZ
with ABC’s Chris Good (@c_good)
ABC NEWS VIDEO: WHERE IS AMERICA ON GAY MARRIAGE? ABC’s Jake Tapper reports on age and racial divisions: While Americans support gay marriage 52 percent to 43 percent, most over 65 and most African Americans don’t. http://abcn.ws/LmOXsw
MIXED POLLING NUMBERS ON MARRIAGE. ABC’s Elizabeth Hartfield revisits California’s Proposition 8 vote: On the whole, younger people tended to support same-sex marriage by a considerably larger margin than older demographics. White voters between the ages of 18 and 29 voted against Proposition 8 67 percent to 33 percent. Latino voters between 18 and 29 voted against the measure 59 percent to 41 percent. http://abcn.ws/KoVCmn
NOTED: BUT NOT ON MILITARY BASES? Not if the House Armed Services Committee has a say. The Hill’s Carlo Munoz on how the committee added language to the Defense authorization bill on Thursday: The measure, which prevents “marriage or marriage-like ceremonies” between same-sex couples from taking place at American military bases, was approved by a 37 to 24 vote along party lines.” http://bit.ly/IZR3ld
OBAMA’S EVOLUTION TIMELINE. ABC’s Devin Dwyer: FEBRUARY 1996: “I favor legalizing same-sex marriages, and would fight efforts to prohibit such marriages,” reads a typed, signed statement from then-Illinois state senate candidate Obama in response to a questionnaire by the Chicago LGBT newspaper “Outlines.” http://abcn.ws/IUkSlT
GAY MARRIAGE DIDN’T TURN ’04 ELECTION. Some have said ballot initiatives stirred turnout for George W. Bush, but ABC’s Matthew Dowd writes: The gay marriage initiatives in 2004 on the ballot in 11 states had no discernable effect on turnout among conservatives. Yes, that’s right, none. Not even in Ohio, which was a swing state in 2004 won in a close contest by former President Bush. http://abcn.ws/IK5R1i
REACTIONS: THE CRITICS. Log Cabin Republicans called Obama’s timing “offensive and callous”; Rep. Allen West, R-Fla., called it “irrelevant pandering”; the National Organization for Marriage and the Family Research Council warned that Obama has made gay marriage an issue for November. http://abcn.ws/J1BnXW
REACTIONS: THE CELEBRATORS. Gay-rights advocates lavished praise on Obama. Human Rights Campaign said Obama “made history”; Servicemembers Legal Defense Network called Wednesday a “great day for gay and lesbian service members.” Follow the link for more statements. http://abcn.ws/LQsiaD
REACTIONS: THE DONORS. The Los Angeles Times’ Joseph Tanfani, Matea Gold and Melanie Mason report that gay donors are “thrilled”: “Today has focused attention and enthusiasm in an almost cathartic way,” said Andrew Tobias, treasurer of the Democratic National Committee and a top bundler for Obama. “Within minutes, people were calling with their credit cards. They’re thrilled.” http://lat.ms/JgEsog
ROMNEY DOESN’T CALL IT A FLIP-FLOP. ABC’s Emily Friedman: “I believe marriage is a relationship between a man and a woman,” said Romney at an impromptu news conference following a speech in Oklahoma City this afternoon. … “I believe that, based upon the interview he gave today on ABC, it said that he had changed his view, but you’re a better judge of that than I am,” said Romney. “I just saw the reports that he had previously said he opposed same sex marriage and now, according to ABC News, he said that he supports it. So if that’s the case you’ll have to make that determination on your own.” http://abcn.ws/JazZWL
BOEHNER: MARRIAGE IS BETWEEN A MAN AND A WOMAN. ABC’s John Parkinson: “I have always believed that marriage was between a man and a woman,” House Speaker John Boehner, R-Ohio, told Fox Business in an interview this afternoon. The speaker suggested the reignited debate over gay marriage is a distraction to other legislative business on Capitol Hill, especially considering the state of the economy. http://abcn.ws/LTq5eI
NOTED: COLORADO TO HOLD SPECIAL SESSION ON CIVIL UNIONS. The state’s legislative session ended Wednesday as lawmakers sought to push multiple civil-union bills. The Denver Post reports: “Gov. John Hickenlooper said Wed nesday that he would call the special session to make sure there was ample time to debate a civil unions bill. House Republicans complained that Democrats were trying to push the bill through the House at the last minute, but critics said GOP lawmakers blocked the bill from coming to a vote by holding prolonged and sometimes-silly debates over lesser bills.” http://bit.ly/LWyLB0
OBAMA: IN THE MONEY. President Obama heads west to Washington and California today for a day of fundraising that will net at least $9 million for the Obama Victory Fund and several state Democratic parties, according to figures provided by the campaign. ABC’s Devin Dwyer reports that Obama will attend two afternoon fundraisers in Seattle, Wash. – a $17,900-per-person afternoon brunch with 70 supporters at a private residence and a concert fundraiser at the Paramount Theater with 1,800 fans. Dave Matthews will also perform at the Paramount event, where tickets started at $1,000 per person. The third and final event of the day is the mega-fundraiser at the Los Angeles home of actor George Clooney. 150 guests are expected, including one lucky winner of the campaign’s grassroots donor sweepstakes. Most of the supporters will fork over $40,000 apiece or more.
GOP COUNTER-PROGRAMMING. In honor of President Obama’s fundraiser with George Clooney, the Republican National Committee is circulating a memo titled: “A Day In The Life The Celebrity-In-Chief Fundraises With Celebrities.” The memo features a series of press clips noting the glitzy nature of the president’s West Coast fundraiser, including the fact that celebrity chef Wolfgang Puck will be catering tonight’s high-dollar event at Clooney’s home. The document also seeks to paint Obama as out of touch with real Americans — a turnabout on the argument Democrats have been using lately against Mitt Romney. http://bit.ly/JhRge1
ODD COUPLE: RON PAUL HAS BREAKFAST WITH BEN BERNANKE. It happened on Wednesday, The Wall Street Journal’s Kristina Peterson reports: “The decision to meet for breakfast at the Fed was ‘mutual,’ said Mr. Paul, who last year introduced a bill to eliminate the central bank. The Fed chief and lawmaker had ‘sort of an open discussion,’ Mr. Paul said, while declining to provide any details of the conversation. ‘It was off the record,’ he said. The Fed declined to comment on the meeting.” http://on.wsj.com/ILVcbh
GOP LEADERS SLOW CONTEMPT VOTE FOR HOLDER. Politico’s John Bresnahan and Jake Sherman, on the plan of Oversight Chairman Darrell Issa, R.-Calif: “Speaker John Boehner of Ohio, Majority Leader Eric Cantor of Virginia and Majority Whip Kevin McCarthy of California have decided to slow Rep. Darrell Issa’s drive to hold the attorney general in contempt over the controversial Fast and Furious program, a move that could infuriate conservatives who have been calling for Holder’s resignation. The delay could be a month or even longer, according to lawmakers and aides familiar with the issue.” http://politi.co/J28KKf
SANTORUM CAN TAKE THE SUPER PAC REINS. ABC’s Shushannah Walshe: The super PAC is becoming Santorum’s PAC, while also remaining his super PAC. Yes, it’s confusing, but it’s a legal change that turns the Red, White, and Blue Fund into a hybrid political action committee that will also work as a traditional leadership PAC to push Santorum’s message, support his political travel, cover administration costs and donate money to candidates he supports with similar views. … Now that Santorum is no longer a candidate or office-holder, he can coordinate with his super PAC, whereas that was forbidden when he was running for public office. http://abcn.ws/K4IErM
POST OFFICES TO STAY OPEN, CUT HOURS. ABC’s Amy Bingham on the latest in USPS’s ongoing financial woes: After 10 months of angst and outrage that spanned from rural Montana to Capitol Hill, the U.S. Postal Service announced Wednesday that the 3,700 post offices targeted in May for closing will remain open. Instead, USPS plans to reduce the hours of operation at 13,000 rural post offices from a full eight-hour day to between two and six open hours per day, a move that the struggling mail service claims will save about $500 million per year. http://abcn.ws/Jte6T3
WHO’S TWEETING?
@ZekeJMiller: Would we have a different GOP nominee if Obama had endorsed gay marriage in September?
@JimCourtovich: Avoiding Next Big Bailout http://on.wsj.com/JhGFl5
@PrestonCNN: Never too early: Marco Rubio will address the Greater Des Moines’ Regional Economic Development Organization (visiting DC).
@joshgerstein: In Edwards prosecutors’ gamble not to call his mistress, echoes of 2005 trial where H. Clinton fundraiser went free http://politi.co/IVRSKr
@meredithshiner: Mourdock just said he got into politics so he could “stand in front of a camera or microphone” & “inflict” his opinions on people.
POLITICAL RADAR
–Mitt Romney campaigns in Omaha, Nebraska, holding one public event and two fundraisers.
–President Obama begins a fundraising swing on the West Coasting, traveling to Seattle and Los Angeles.
Check out The Note’s Futures Calendar: http://abcn.ws/ZI9gV
Does marriage matter? Of course it “matters”. Why does ABC even pose the question?
Posted by: newcountryman | May 10, 2012, 8:42 am 8:42 am
He is sick, He needs to read the bible, it was here long before he was ,and it will be here for the rest of time.
Posted by: Tina | May 10, 2012, 8:44 am 8:44 am
Does Marriage Matter?
Yep.
“Why does ABC even pose the question?” – NewCountryMan
Out of touch Pop Culture Denizens occupy the Media?
Posted by: Noz | May 10, 2012, 9:40 am 9:40 am
Obama’s decision may be bold but it is risky and may cost him the election since the country is not ready for gay marriage.
Posted by: DONT | May 10, 2012, 10:13 am 10:13 am
There is an election looming. We shall see if this is more risk or reward.
I suspect Obama will be surprised.
Posted by: Rick | May 10, 2012, 10:19 am 10:19 am
But, the race for the White House is going to be won or lost in the suburbs of northern Virginia, Denver, and Philadelphia. And in these places gay marriage is a non-issue.—What??? How does this writer figure that??? What about ohio and florida???
Posted by: billy bob | May 10, 2012, 10:26 am 10:26 am
With divorce rates as high as they are in our country, we shouldn’t tell anyone whether they can marry or not. Most of the opposition to gay marriage comes from religious groups and churches. When was the last time that your church paid your bills or mortgage? People need to stop trying to control others in our country and remember that this is still a free country.
Posted by: Javier Luna | May 10, 2012, 10:27 am 10:27 am
Must be too many negative comments so, of course, the system tells me I’m posting too quickly. One comment this morning is too quickly?
Posted by: Give Me a Break | May 10, 2012, 10:28 am 10:28 am
Just a couple weeks ago Obama said to the media that he did NOT support gay marriage. Suddenly he does. Hmmmmm must be he wants a 2nd term. Just because of his “wishy washyness” I may vote for Romney……………
Posted by: Martimouse123 | May 10, 2012, 10:28 am 10:28 am
“Does Marriage Matter?” ——- I tried to ask Rush Limbaugh’s first, second, third and fourth wives this question, but got no response. Same with the first and second Mrs. Newt Gingrich – nothing.
Posted by: Odin, god of gods | May 10, 2012, 10:39 am 10:39 am
Just a couple weeks ago Obama said to the media that he did NOT support gay marriage. Posted by: Martimouse123 | May 10, 2012, 10:28 am.
Really? Can you provide a link and an exact quote?
Posted by: Odin, god of gods | May 10, 2012, 10:40 am 10:40 am
If we fight to deny equal rights here, future generations will view us as favorably as we view those previous generations for their racism and sexism.
Posted by: Justin | May 10, 2012, 10:43 am 10:43 am
In 1996 state Senate candidate Obama was for gay marriage, then he was against it, then he was evolving, and now he supports gay marriage again. Sounds like the President is playing us for fools.
Posted by: ztarbod | May 10, 2012, 10:43 am 10:43 am
This isn’t going to change ANYONE’S mind. You are either opposed or for equality in marriage. Thank You Mr President for taking a big step forward.
Posted by: corey | May 10, 2012, 10:49 am 10:49 am
There are people using other people’s post names and typing stupid ugly comments. You know who you are and I have to guess you are a young mixed up person who doesn’t know how to form an intelligent thought so you play stupid childish games. Does it make you feel big and special? Or just the pathetic little worm that you are??
Posted by: Jerrie | May 10, 2012, 10:49 am 10:49 am
“when I think about those soldiers or airmen or marines or sailors who are out there fighting on my behalf and yet feel constrained”
This is the most disturbing line that “came out” of his statement. No, Mr. President, they are fighting on the behalf of OUR COUNTRY. But Mr. Narcassist has put his foot in his mouth again. And, good little soldiers that they are, the press ignores it.
Posted by: wheresmymoney | May 10, 2012, 10:50 am 10:50 am
The President’s decision to support gay marriage will contribute to the moral decline of America. I wonder how many votes it will cost him.
Posted by: Robert Holt | May 10, 2012, 10:59 am 10:59 am
ABC says “More reward than risk in gay marriage support.” What a misguided falsehood! Jesus said, “Really, of what benefit is it for a man to gain the whole world and to forfeit his soul? What really, would a man give in exchange for his soul? For whoever becomes ashamed of me and my WORDS in this adulterous and sinful generation, the Son of Man will also be ashamed of him when he arrives in the glory of his Father with the holy angels.” Mark 8:36-38. President Obama, was it worth a few extra votes?
Posted by: Bonnie | May 10, 2012, 11:04 am 11:04 am
No, Mr. President, they are fighting on the behalf of OUR COUNTRY.
Posted by: wheresmymoney | May 10, 2012, 10:50 am
You’ll forgive him if he feels their fighting is personal for him. He is, after all, Commander in Chief of the US Armed Forces. He literally holds their fate in his hands.
Posted by: Odin, god of gods | May 10, 2012, 11:04 am 11:04 am
Why is the federal government even involved in marriage (straight or gay)? Isn’t marriage a religious rite? I know some people are married in a court house and you have to get a license but that’s a state issue not a federal issue. Where is the separation of church and state on this issue?
Posted by: 8 The Man | May 10, 2012, 11:07 am 11:07 am
“He is sick, He needs to read the bible, it was here long before he was ,and it will be here for the rest of time.”
Posted by: Tina | May 10, 2012, 8:44 am 8:44 am
________________________________________________________________
Tina: True, marriage has been here since near the beginning of time I suppose, but it will not be here forever. Read in Matthew 22:30 – Jesus states: “For in the resurrection they neither marry nor are given in marriage, but are like angels of God in Heaven”.
Posted by: Debbie | May 10, 2012, 11:09 am 11:09 am
Why is the federal government even involved in marriage (straight or gay)? Isn’t marriage a religious rite? Posted by: 8 The Man | May 10, 2012, 11:07 am
While there are obviously religious overtones to the ceremony performed in a church, marriage was and continues to be a legal construct. Married people get hundreds of legal benefits that single people do not. Hence the big fight. Anti gay-marriage people want to continue denying those legal benefits to gays, based on their personal religious prejudices. They are against civil rights, and for discrimination against a minority, based on nothing but their religious dogma.
Posted by: Odin, god of gods | May 10, 2012, 11:16 am 11:16 am
Next up America Obama will come on TV saying he supports Sharia Law and that it is up to the States so he can have a back door. I am sorry but the fools who voted for him have been fooled again. The blind eyes of the left and libs have hit them in the face. sure he will have a small majority say it’s a goog thing but what you wont here is the larger majority say he was wrong. You see those stories will be buried by main stream abc, cnn, cbs, and god pay back Rachael Maddow
Posted by: Jim Rod | May 10, 2012, 11:23 am 11:23 am
In 2008 Obama said because of his Christian beliefs he believed that marriage was between a man and a women. Is he no longer a Christian then?
Posted by: Freedom | May 10, 2012, 11:25 am 11:25 am
Although Obama’s views may be “evolving” (flip-flopping, according to polls), currently he believes this: marriage is still between a man and a woman mostly but not entirely maybe, and good dining is between a man and a dog.
Posted by: Obama defines things for now | May 10, 2012, 11:27 am 11:27 am
After 3 1/2 years of polling and crunching the numbers, finding out if the number of “homo-phobic” black votes that would be lost–compared with the pro gay agenda votes he will gain–and the talking points it will create–Mr. President is for gay marriage—just like he was anti-war in the last election!!!
Posted by: April | May 10, 2012, 11:28 am 11:28 am
This is playing out nicely for Obama’s continued fade and collapse. Watch and see.
Posted by: buzzmeister | May 10, 2012, 11:29 am 11:29 am
Government: Stay out of EVERYONE’S marital affairs. Pardon the pun.
They should stick to civil unions ONLY for EVERYONE.
Marriage done OUTSIDE of the government ONLY.
That way, everybody’s happy.
Remember the constitution? Maybe they had something when they came up with seperation of church and state
Posted by: Eva | May 10, 2012, 11:31 am 11:31 am
Gee, too bad the Obama is such a flip-flopping, finger-in-the-wind charlatan and phony, “supporting” part of his lib base in hollow words only. But…if you vote for him again, then his views may “evolve” further in your direction. How utterly cynical, lame, and self-serving he is, as if everyone with a brain doesn’t already know that.
Posted by: BEA BEA | May 10, 2012, 11:31 am 11:31 am
What about separation of church and state, isn’t marriage a religious institution. Why are gays so hung up on having the right to marry when it is before God not man.
Posted by: Seriously | May 10, 2012, 11:32 am 11:32 am
Nothing has changed: Obama sucks badly. And he’ll still be sucking when November rolls into town. At least he keeps on finding new ways to prove this already obvious fact.
Posted by: sai | May 10, 2012, 11:32 am 11:32 am
The fact that this issue is big news makes me sad. With all the celebrities that get married and divorced like it is nothing a big deal is made about gay marriage. People say allowing gay marriaage will ruin the sanctity, let me introduce you to Kim Kardashian, Britney Spears and the numerous others who make marriage a joke.
Posted by: OhJeez | May 10, 2012, 11:33 am 11:33 am
FLIP-FLOP…. FLIP-FLOP!!! —— Is it coincidence that a day after President Obama endorses same-sex marriage, he’s heading out to Hollywood for a $40,000-a-plate campaign fundraiser with George Clooney that’s expected to raise $15 million? ——- S
Posted by: TheLoyalOpposition | May 10, 2012, 11:36 am 11:36 am
You’ll forgive him if he feels their fighting is personal for him. He is, after all, Commander in Chief of the US Armed Forces. He literally holds their fate in his hands.
Posted by: Odin, god of gods | May 10, 2012, 11:04 am 11:04 am
Then why didn’t he take the blame for the 22 Navy SEALS that were killed? He sure took the credit for the SEALS killing Bin Laden.
Once again, it is all about HIM. Not about the country.
Posted by: wheresmymoney | May 10, 2012, 11:36 am 11:36 am
Kim Kardashian has been mumbling about politics lately. I hope she’ll jump into the Presidential race, and thus split the Obama vote.
Posted by: kim 4 prez | May 10, 2012, 11:36 am 11:36 am
agree w/ Tina. marriage has been around ever since God first instituted it on adam & eve in the garden-between one MAN & one WOMAN, for life! it’s good Obama verbalized his stand FOR same-sex marriage, so that those still undecided on their vote in november will realize NOT to vote for him.
Posted by: malingky | May 10, 2012, 11:37 am 11:37 am
“…based on nothing but their religious dogma.”
Posted by: Odin, god of gods
And your views are based on nothing but your ideological views. Wise up.
Posted by: rafael zinn | May 10, 2012, 11:44 am 11:44 am
This will hurt Obama in key swing-states that are more conservative on this issue than the national average!! — OH, PA, FL, IA…. but at least he is admitting to what he really believed!!! — He tends to never tell the truth on most issues!!
Posted by: TheLoyalOpposition | May 10, 2012, 11:45 am 11:45 am
Billy Bob–Since when were churches supposed to pay your bills or mortgage? I don’t understand your reasoning. I have been a part of many churches that have reached out to help people pay their bills and mortgage. Most churches have benevolence funds to assist people in need.
Posted by: Moonhill | May 10, 2012, 11:46 am 11:46 am
Can anyone provide a clear and rational argument against gay marriage that is not grounded in religion or religious dogma? One that is based on secular or constitutional law? Anyone?
Posted by: Odin, god of gods | May 10, 2012, 11:48 am 11:48 am
Show me one human being that recieved life from the union of two men or two women. The union of a man and woman in marriage is the foundation of society. Nothing is equal to it.
Posted by: Benjamin | May 10, 2012, 11:51 am 11:51 am
Odin, god of gods | May 10, 2012, 11:16 am —– No!……… There is NO discrimination if the state allows civil unions with equal provisions!! — I do not have a problem with civil unions…. it accomplishes what gays want… but doesn’t insult the sanctity of the religious sacrament of “marriage”!! — Since liberal are more likely to shun religious implications… they are hypocritical if not satisfied with this compromise! — The request for “equal protection under the law” is satisfied!! —— HOWEVER… you and I both know that is not the agenda!! —- The push is for the “LABEL” of marriage… it is ALL about an agenda to LEGITIMIZE a lifestyle by using the SAME TERM for the union that is used by heterosexuals!! — That is what the “gay marriage” movement is all about!!!! ——– ALSO, nobody supporting gay relationships will admit that the traditional family structure (male/female) with “involved” parents has statistically proven to be the BEST atmosphere for raising children… bar none!!!
Posted by: TheLoyalOpposition | May 10, 2012, 11:55 am 11:55 am
“Screw gay marriage and screw straight marriage. I’d like a decent job sometime soon.”
Posted by: Maslows Needs
Sorry, phony and inept Obama cannot help you with that.
Posted by: no help coming | May 10, 2012, 12:03 pm 12:03 pm
…marriage has been around ever since God first instituted it on adam & eve in the garden-between one MAN & one WOMAN, for life! Posted by: malingky | May 10, 2012, 11:37 am.
Was their wedding ceremony held before or after the talking serpent convinced Eve to eat the apple? Who performed that ceremony? And if they were the first two people, and they had two sons, then who the heck lives in the land of Nod?!?!?
Posted by: Odin, god of gods | May 10, 2012, 12:07 pm 12:07 pm
“There is NO discrimination if the state allows civil unions with equal provisions!!” ———– I agree. How many states allow that? North Carolina just amended their constitution to make the marriage of a man and a woman the only LEGAL union recognized in that state. No civil marriages, even for straight people. And, ironically, it also took AWAY some of the rights of straight people who were living together but not married. Also, even though the US Constitution explicitly states that any legal proceeding in one state must be recognized in all other states (the full faith and credit clause), SOME states still refuse do that. Some states refuse to acknowledge a LEGAL marriage or civil union performed in another state, if the two people are of the same sex. Explain that.
Posted by: Odin, god of gods | May 10, 2012, 12:16 pm 12:16 pm
@ODIN, you have nothing except pablum and stale talking points. Posted by: gypsy rose | May 10, 2012, 12:01 pm.
Then it should be easy for someone who is against gay marriage to refute them. Yet not one single person has put forth a rational, non-religious argument against gay marriage, or marriage equality for gays. Why is that? Why don’t YOU give it a shot? I’ll answer my own question: because you have nothing. Insult me or dismiss me, but for gods sake, defend your position like an adult.
Posted by: Odin, god of gods | May 10, 2012, 12:19 pm 12:19 pm
Is it coincidence that a day after President Obama endorses same-sex marriage, he’s heading out to Hollywood for a $40,000-a-plate campaign fundraiser with George Clooney that’s expected to raise $15 million?
Posted by: abc | May 10, 2012, 12:23 pm 12:23 pm
Odin, god of gods—It must be dishartening for you and Obama to be on the losing side of this argument? The vast majorty of Americans do not agree with you or Obama and it was going to be a close race for him until he inserted his foot into his mouth. Enjoy your 20 seconds of thinking things have changed, NOT.
Posted by: billy bob | May 10, 2012, 12:24 pm 12:24 pm
Then it should be easy for someone who is against gay marriage to refute them. Yet not one single person has put forth a rational, non-religious argument against gay marriage, or marriage equality for gays. Why is that? Why don’t YOU give it a shot? I’ll answer my own question: because you have nothing. Insult me or dismiss me, but for gods sake, defend your position like an adult.
Posted by: Odin, god of gods | May 10, 2012, 12:19 pm 12:19 pm
—Errrr read Posted by: TheLoyalOpposition | May 10, 2012, 11:55 am 11:55 am
He pretty well shot you down.
Posted by: billy bob | May 10, 2012, 12:26 pm 12:26 pm
The vast majority of Americans do not agree with you or Obama….. Posted by: billy bob | May 10, 2012, 12:24 pm.
Why do you feel you have to lie to make a point? Why can’t you tell the truth about this. Right now, today, a slight majority of Americans favor gay marriage equality. That has been bourne out in poll after poll after poll. Idiots like you are in the minority, you brain dead cretin.
Posted by: Odin, god of gods | May 10, 2012, 12:37 pm 12:37 pm
BILLY BOB
53% of Americans favor gay marriage. The President supports it, even though he could lose NC, and older voters in the general election. Unlike “Silly Putty” Mitt he took a stand.
Mitt will stick his foot in his mouth and flip-flop many times before November. It’s not a question of who will win but if the President can get a Congress he can work with.
Posted by: tmferretti | May 10, 2012, 12:40 pm 12:40 pm
Odin, god of gods | May 10, 2012, 12:16 pm —– The “defense of marriage” law, which was passed by congress… yet unenforced by this administration, has a differing opinion than the full faith and credit clause! — So I ask…. why hasn’t any gay marriage supporter taken this law through the courts to test it’s constitutionality?? — What is stopping them?? — And the Obama administration just refuses to “honor” the law rather than fighting it? WHY? ——– Bottom line…. why is Obama allowing “gay marriage” to consume his attention instead of actually working to better the country??
Posted by: TheLoyalOpposition | May 10, 2012, 12:46 pm 12:46 pm
I’m a happily married straight woman and I can’t understand for the life of me why people are so anti gay marriage. You people need to get a life!
Posted by: Abby | May 10, 2012, 12:46 pm 12:46 pm
ALSO, nobody supporting gay relationships will admit that the traditional family structure (male/female) with “involved” parents has statistically proven to be the BEST atmosphere for raising children… bar none!!! Posted by: TheLoyalOpposition | May 10, 2012, 11:55 am.
Well, except for a 25 year long study of children raised by lesbians that found they were socially better adjusted, and did better in school than their counterparts raised in a ‘traditional family structure’. Because in a gay family, there is NEVER an “accident” or an unplanned-for child. Never. A ‘traditional family structure (male/female) with two involved parents’ occurs in how many households nowadays? A fraction. That is a really weak argument against gay marriage. Really weak. And while we’re on that subject, what about the 50% divorce rate within that ‘traditional family structure’? Children of divorce have been statistically proven to do worse in many different areas of life, including academics, social adjustment, and personal relationships. And here’s a shocker for ya: lots of gay people don’t even want kids. Just like lots of straight couples. And here’s another thing: it’s none of your god damn business if two people in a committed relationship want or do not want kids. Kids with gay parents are always planned and wanted. You cannot say the same for kids of straight parents. and even YOU had to qualify your ‘traditional family structure’ comment by saying it only applies to “involved” parents. You ignore the millions of UN-involved parents. Weak, lame arguments is all you have. But it’s still better than anyone else’s anti-gay-marriage argument. So kudos for the attempt……
Posted by: Odin, god of gods | May 10, 2012, 12:47 pm 12:47 pm
Odin, god of gods — I am not religious, but let me ask you this. How long has the term “marriage” been around? How long has the term “Gay Marriage” been around? When most people hear the term “marriage”, they think of a mom and a dad. Traditionally, a marriage has been between a man and a woman. I am OK with civil unions granting the same benefits for gay people, but I am not OK with a traditional term being used for something that many people disagree with. It’s just that simple. I am not religious at all, as I believe religion is a business and has also been the catalyst for too many wars. I am a traditionalist and by that I mean true traditions to include that of marriage between a man and a woman.
Posted by: Commonsenseparty | May 10, 2012, 12:48 pm 12:48 pm
tmferretti | May 10, 2012, 12:40 pm —- It’s still a question of who will win. Obama would be ill advised to think he has this in the bag. His decision to flip flop on this issue will garner more LGBT because that’s all these idiots care about. The reason I say idiots is because if all you are going to vote on is one issue, you’re a voting idiot. Obama will lose some support in other areas. Personally, I believe obama flip flopped because he sees more to gain, not because he truly believes in gay marriage. If you can’t see through that, you’re politically blind.
Posted by: Commonsenseparty | May 10, 2012, 12:53 pm 12:53 pm
Posted by: Commonsenseparty | May 10, 2012, 12:48 pm 12:48 pm
—X2, I agree 100% with this post as do most Americans.
Posted by: billy bob | May 10, 2012, 12:58 pm 12:58 pm
Odin, god of gods | May 10, 2012, 12:47 pm —- Gay families make up what, 4% of our population? So comparing millions against thousands will certainly benefit the few. As far as civil unions, they “naturally” cannot procreate right? And as for your planned and unplanned children, how many women have had 2 or more children and then came out of the closet? So there are unplanned children in gay relationships. As for divorces and INVOLVED parents, are you saying gays will end up divorcing any less and/or are INVOLVED more? I am tired of this issue, but when the LGBT finally gets their wish and can “marry” at any given time anywhere, then we can compare apples to apples, but not before then.
Posted by: Commonsenseparty | May 10, 2012, 1:00 pm 1:00 pm
This was such a staged event that it made it look Obama look bad as well. Please he ordered Holder not to enforce DOMA and in his own writings when he ran for an Illinois state senate seat in 1994 he openly wrote he supported gay marriages. His flip flopping and dramatics played out regarding this issue demonstrates what a fraud he is let alone personally picking Roberts for the interview really is pathetic.
Posted by: Lucy | May 10, 2012, 1:00 pm 1:00 pm
Abby | May 10, 2012, 12:46 pm —- See my post at 11:55.
Posted by: TheLoyalOpposition | May 10, 2012, 1:01 pm 1:01 pm
The “defense of marriage” law, which was passed by congress… yet unenforced by this administration, has a differing opinion than the full faith and credit clause! — So I ask…. why hasn’t any gay marriage supporter taken this law through the courts to test it’s constitutionality?
Posted by: TheLoyalOpposition | May 10, 2012, 12:46 pm
Yes it does. So which do you think is correct? A law passed by congress 15 years ago, or the US Constitution? Be honest. Right now, there is a case before the Supreme Court about the constitutionality of a different law that was passed by Congress. (You know which one.) This happens a lot. Congress passes a law, someone opposes it on constitutional grounds, and it works its way up to the SC, so THEY can decide if it is constitutional or not. Of course, when you have an activist conservative majority on the SC, anything is possible. Just look at Citizens United.
As for why no one has challenged DOMA all the way up to the SC – I don’t know. Someone should. Maybe there IS a case in the works somewhere. Again, I don’t know.
Posted by: Odin, god of gods | May 10, 2012, 1:01 pm 1:01 pm
LOL…I see a’lot’ of emotional, subjective opinions on this subject. Very few intelligent thoughts. Here is what it does for the President. It fires up the youth vote (55% of them support gay marriage). It also ‘frees up’ alot of very wealthy gay money to counteract the Karl Rove/Citizens United wealth crowd. And for our nation? It points the way to the ‘future’ of this country….certainly not promoting ‘the past’. Once again, the President proves that he is a leader.
Posted by: CND FOX | May 10, 2012, 1:04 pm 1:04 pm
I’m glad to see Obama speak up, but feel that government needs to get out of the marriage business. We have a separation of church and state so the only legitimate role of government would be to allow contractual arrangements (domestic partnerships) open to ALL, and let the religions decide if they want to deem it a real “marriage” or not. People are free to opt out of religions, but we are all citizens of this country so everyone needs the same access to civil partnerships if the government is going to recognize them. It’s time to strip ALL marriages of any religious significance for governmantal purposes.
Posted by: Karen Fuller | May 10, 2012, 1:07 pm 1:07 pm
Posted by: CND FOX | May 10, 2012, 1:04 pm 1:04 pm
—Errrrr still waiting on that intelligent thought???
Posted by: billy bob | May 10, 2012, 1:11 pm 1:11 pm
I am OK with civil unions granting the same benefits for gay people, but I am not OK with a traditional term being used for something that many people disagree with. It’s just that simple…. I am a traditionalist and by that I mean true traditions to include that of marriage between a man and a woman. Posted by: Commonsenseparty | May 10, 2012, 12:48 pm ——- Marriage has been around for thousands of years, well before christianity. It was originally devised as a means of transferring wealth, or chattel, to the next generation. Chattel included livestock, property, and yes, daughters. It was strictly business. Ten year old girls were married off to forty year old men, and no one batted an eye. Polygamy was also an accepted form of “traditional” marriage back then. Is THAT the kind of “traditions” you, as a “traditionalist”, still support? Why not? Frankly, it doesn’t matter one damn bit if YOU are “not OK” with gays being allowed to marry. Because believe it or not – this isn’t about you. This is about legal Americans getting legal rights that most other Americans already have. Why are people against this? Most states don’t even recognize civil unions between gay people. Why not? Why continue the discrimination? Being gay isn’t illegal. Being in love isn’t illegal. Being gay and in love isn’t illegal. But being gay and marrying the one you love IS illegal? How the hell did THAT happen here, in the “land of the free”?!?!? Where people pride themselves on having freedom to do what you want as long as it doesn’t hurt others? Are YOU hurt by two gay people getting married? How? People cry that the government is in too much of our private lives. And these same people want to discriminate against a minority by using the government to prevent them from marrying. Explain that.
Posted by: Odin, god of gods | May 10, 2012, 1:12 pm 1:12 pm
…but when the LGBT finally gets their wish and can “marry” at any given time anywhere, then we can compare apples to apples, but not before then.
Posted by: Commonsenseparty | May 10, 2012, 1:00 pm.
Great! Let’s make it legal across the land, and revisit this issue in a few years. Oh wait, that won’t work, since YOUR SIDE refuses to end the discrimination………..
Posted by: Odin, god of gods | May 10, 2012, 1:14 pm 1:14 pm
AT LAST!! We have a president with balls! I am definitely voting for Obama next November. Thank you, Mr. President!
Posted by: CLover | May 10, 2012, 1:20 pm 1:20 pm
Its pandoras box. Allowing people to have certian rights because of their sexual preferance opens the box. If this is allowed than why not poligamy, or marrying my sister, or my dog or my horse. Once the precedent is set than it becomes a free fall and anything goes.
Posted by: billy bob | May 10, 2012, 1:24 pm 1:24 pm
American morals are hitting bottom. We are a nation of Christians no matter that this President says. were not. We were founded as a Christian nation. Taking God, the ten commandments, prayer, etc out of schools is a disgrace to this country and the people that died for it.
Posted by: Freedom | May 10, 2012, 1:31 pm 1:31 pm
Odin, god of gods | May 10, 2012, 12:47 pm —— The discussion of “traditional family” rearing was a “side-note” to our original discussion… but it is an important point in the gay marriage question, because it shows the overall DIRECTION we are headed in with this movement and others!! —– The traditional family units remains the preference!! —- The paper “Current Family Structure; Family structure and childhood outcomes” by the Univ of Chicago and the Alabama Policy Institute, compiled data from over 100 studies on family structure and the eventual outcome in child adjustment! — The vast majority of these studies still show the “traditional family” as the best for child-rearing!! — I don’t care if it is becoming less frequent… it is still the best! — This was a “side-note” to our original discussion… but it is true!!
Posted by: TheLoyalOpposition | May 10, 2012, 1:35 pm 1:35 pm
ABC News: Why is it that odin has multiple posts but mine usually don’t appear. Isn’t that bias! What are you afraid of—an idea that might be more credible than the ones you support? This demonstrates the reasons why the MSM are rejected by most Americans as having no credibility. You take sides and manipulate your position to promote only one view. Just goes to show that you support a bankrupt ideology.
Posted by: Perplexed | May 10, 2012, 1:35 pm 1:35 pm
If anyone, for one minute, believes that these politicians tell you what they TRULY believe then you should stand back and watch closely for a while. These issues cannot be solved by politicians, but they are polarizing when presented for political gain by either side. You will not see the President do anything more on the issue, but he has once again put a match to the fire of public opinion and diverted attention away from extremely important issues of the day. Any change in the economy, deficit, jobs, etc. made by this announcement? Just another diversion.
Posted by: Erin McK | May 10, 2012, 1:36 pm 1:36 pm
CND FOX | May 10, 2012, 1:04 pm —- So flip floppiing makes Obama a leader? That’s pretty shallow considering you and many others calling Romney a flip flopper. That can only mean Romney is a much better leader than Obama I guess. The only reason Obama has flip flopped is he sees more to gain from the position, not that he actually wants gays to marry. If you believe different, it’s not only your post that is shallow. Not to mention clueless Biden pushing him onto it. Read what Obama has said and he proves everything I am writing on this post. This was nothing more than a political move. He will do anything to get reelected.
Posted by: Commonsenseparty | May 10, 2012, 1:45 pm 1:45 pm
Obama flip-flops on gay marriage….. meanwhile… important matters are ignored!! —- 324,000 women dropped out of the nation’s civilian labor force in March and April as the number of women not in the labor force hit an all-time historical high of 53,321,000, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics!!! —– For both males and females combined, the rate of participation in the labor force dropped to 63.6 percent in April—the lowest rate since December 1981!!!! —– It’s the ECONOMY… and we’re not stupid!!!!
Posted by: TheLoyalOpposition | May 10, 2012, 1:47 pm 1:47 pm
TheLoyalOpposition | May 10, 2012, 1:35 pm post:
What’s your point? Having kids, or wanting kids, is not a requirement for marriage. Period. And I also cited a study that took place over 25 YEARS and showed the children of lesbian couples were better adjusted and did better in school. And all of that is moot. Unless you start pushing for new laws that prohibit people from marrying UNLESS they have kids, or do not allow seniors to marry if they are beyond child bearing age, or do not allow couples to marry if they are medically unable to have kids. Is THAT the direction you are wanting to go? Of course, you will ALSO have to create new laws to punish unmarried people who have children. See my point?
Posted by: Odin, god of gods | May 10, 2012, 1:48 pm 1:48 pm
“Kim Kardashian has been mumbling about politics lately. I hope she’ll jump into the Presidential race, and thus split the Obama vote.” – Split the Obama vote? She could take the whole thing? Notice Ron Paul gets roughly 10% of the vote in every primary. I suppose it’s true that only 10% of the voting public has any brains whatsoever.
Posted by: John Appleseed | May 10, 2012, 1:49 pm 1:49 pm
BILLY BOB….LOL…LOL….doesn’t surprise me in the least that you said that (your 1:11). I never expect partisan ideologues…to get it! LOL…LOL But then again…they aren’t the ones I intend my posts for.
Posted by: CND FOX | May 10, 2012, 1:51 pm 1:51 pm
We are a nation of Christians no matter that this President says. were not. We were founded as a Christian nation. Posted by: Freedom | May 10, 2012, 1:31 pm.
We were NOT founded as a Christian nation. That is a LIE. We were FOUNDED as a Constitutional Republic, with the rule of law based on the Constitution. We are not a theocracy. Yes, most Americans call themselves Christians. Too bad most of them don’t act like Christians.
Posted by: Odin, god of gods | May 10, 2012, 1:52 pm 1:52 pm
Odin, god of gods | May 10, 2012, 1:48 pm —- My point is you just sited ONE study…. I just gave you the information on where to find 100 studies saying the opposite!!!!!!!!! — You do read posts, don’t you!!?!?!??
Posted by: TheLoyalOpposition | May 10, 2012, 1:53 pm 1:53 pm
With all of the problems in the world, who cares if two people who love each other want to marry? Nobody should judge. If a gay couple has been together for many, many years, and if one gets terminally sick, or in an accident, their partner is not allowed to comfort them in the hospital because they are not “family.” That is not right. I have more of a problem morally with those that get pregnant before marriage, that is the real destruction of the American family. But nobody cares about that because it is a man and woman thing. I am very good friends with a gay couple who have raised two wonderful children after their mother died of cancer and the dad and his partner raised them. They are now wonderful adults.
Posted by: cynda p. | May 10, 2012, 1:56 pm 1:56 pm
abc must be hurting to keep the idiotic stories going. I mean the world is in a hurt, America is in a hurt. I have another close freind losing his and his wifes home even after finding low paying jobs. And Obama is making stressfull choices for Gay marriage. Man this shows where this mans head has been. He calls in his freind Robin form ABC to tell his story too. Man she asked some tough questions. CND back off we all know your a DNC plant
Posted by: Jim Rod | May 10, 2012, 1:57 pm 1:57 pm
Religious conservatives believe that abortion is wrong because a life is created by God. I agree. If you believe that being gay is a product of environment then you have an argument against gay marriage.
However, if like most scientists, you believe being gay is destined from birth, then God also created those lives and you argument against gay marriage is hypocritical. How can you say a fetus deserves all the rights of every human being but a gay fetus does not?
Posted by: tmferretti | May 10, 2012, 2:04 pm 2:04 pm
“”"”most Americans call themselves Christians. Too bad most of them don’t act like Christians.”"”"”
Posted by: Odin, god of gods
Funny thing: “”Idiots like you are in the minority, you brain dead cretin”"”" On your earlier post certainly doesn’t sound christian. Now, I don’t care about religion, but you seem to and then say things like this. Are you sure you’re not Obama?
Posted by: Commonsenseparty | May 10, 2012, 2:05 pm 2:05 pm
Interesting choice of words…. “evolving”. According to evolutionists… Evolving requires generations of change, selection, and variety through reproduction. A same sex relationship is a “dead end” in every sense of the word. In Nature’s world… it is an anomaly that dies off in the natural process.
Posted by: xpontial | May 10, 2012, 2:07 pm 2:07 pm
Obama is running the country into the dirt so he can put everyone on food stamps.
Posted by: John Appleseed | May 10, 2012, 2:08 pm 2:08 pm
If there is supposed to be separation between church and state the question is, Is marriage a religious issue or a government issue? Some religions allow same sex while others dont…so does the government have the right to deny a person’s religious rights and outlaw something that is permissible within their religion? They took prayer out of schools because of separation of church and state, they took the Ten Commandments out of the courts because of separation of church and state, so should be not take marriage of the government hands and place it back in the hands of the religions. I get confused on this….either there is separattion of church and state or there isn’t.
Posted by: mitch raines | May 10, 2012, 2:16 pm 2:16 pm
So much hate from the Left.
Posted by: newcountryman | May 10, 2012, 2:17 pm 2:17 pm
As far as this same sex marriage. It is wrong,wrong,wrong is God’s eyes and his heart. He does not want marriage to be a man and woman. Don’t have any thought what he is thinking about. It is close to Sodium and Gamore. Think what happened their families.
Posted by: Beverly Lautner | May 10, 2012, 2:19 pm 2:19 pm
If there is “More Reward Than Risk in Obama’s Gay Marriage Support” then it could be a politically motivated calculated maneuver. It would be much more impressive if this were a decision of conviction even though it was unpopular!
Posted by: Common _ Sense | May 10, 2012, 2:28 pm 2:28 pm
most Americans call themselves Christians. Too bad most of them don’t act like Christians. — This circular argument is worthless. How about trying this…. ““Do not think that I have come to bring peace to the earth. I have not come to bring peace, but a sword”. (Jesus Christ) Matthew 10:34 If you don’t even know why Jesus came then you can’t possibly be a Christian? (ie: Follower of Christ)
Posted by: John Appleseed | May 10, 2012, 2:28 pm 2:28 pm
“He is sick, He needs to read the bible, it was here long before he was ,and it will be here for the rest of time.”
Posted by: Tina | May 10, 2012, 8:44 am 8:44 am
___________________________________________________________________
It depends on what you consider the rest of time I guess. In Matthew 22:30 Jesus says “For in the resurrection they neither marry nor are given in marriage, but are like angels of God in heaven”.
Posted by: Debbie | May 10, 2012, 2:36 pm 2:36 pm
“Romney will win by at least 8% in November. Cry me a river. LOL.”
Posted by: Crying Game
It’s looking like more like Obama may lose by about 12%. Cry another river if ya want.
Posted by: mr tibbs | May 10, 2012, 3:03 pm 3:03 pm
What annoys me about this, and should annoy those who don’t have jobs, is Pres Obama’s utter waste of brain power and air time on this topic. His personal beliefs can’t do squat for state laws and probate courts who administer marriage licenses. As one who can perform marriages in my state akin to a JP (and has), if the state recognized civil unions between same-sex individuals, I am fairly certain I would not perform such ceremonies. However, I do believe such civil unions should be recognized by law in order for gay couples to receive the same benefits traditional married couples recieve, i.e., surviving spouse, etc.
Posted by: wildblue | May 10, 2012, 3:20 pm 3:20 pm
I’m glad Obama has “evolved”. He didn’t achieve anything though other than support states rights on the issue, which I believe it already was a states rights issue, which I think is the right way to go about things. So, he’s really evolved a couple of ways.
Posted by: TexBork2012 | May 10, 2012, 3:35 pm 3:35 pm
I still don’t see what’s so wrong with NAMBLA. Some boys need a guiding hand.
Posted by: lexingtonlady | May 10, 2012, 3:45 pm 3:45 pm
Posted by: TexBork2012 | May 10, 2012, 3:35 pm – ___________________________________ Good Point! President Obama thinks Gay Marriage is a “states rights” issue but for abortion, medical insurance, illegal immigration and education he wants the Federal Government to control things! He must not be done evolving yet!!
Posted by: Common _ Sense | May 10, 2012, 3:53 pm 3:53 pm
I really think the DEMS should move FORWARD and propse the repal of the DOMA. The House and Senate could vote on the repeal. But I be they ain’t got the nerve to vote on it.
Posted by: jamescbuilder | May 10, 2012, 4:39 pm 4:39 pm
Are the republicans ever going to do anything to defend the standard of living and values of the middle class, women, Hispanics, blacks, seniors, young people,and now gays?
If only straight rich white men between the ages of 40 and 50 could vote, they’d win by a landslide.
Posted by: tmferretti | May 10, 2012, 4:52 pm 4:52 pm
Why don’t we hear Obama talk about ‘individual liberty’? Why doesn’t the press give us some history of the use of “Forward” – as in how it was used in Germany and Russia?
Posted by: deanbob | May 10, 2012, 5:14 pm 5:14 pm
What do we R E A L L Y know about the man in the man we call president?
Posted by: deanbob | May 10, 2012, 5:43 pm 5:43 pm
Obama is a very bad joke.
Posted by: mr tibbs | May 10, 2012, 6:15 pm 6:15 pm
LOL, tmferretti. Same as always — trying and failing. Stale talking points and silly generalizations and spin just won’t cut it.
Posted by: ripley believes | May 10, 2012, 6:20 pm 6:20 pm
How does this writer figure that??? What about ohio and florida???
POSTED BY: BILLY BOB | MAY 10, 2012, 10:26 AM *****************
Florida is only a hanging chad different. Hee hee
Posted by: michael | May 10, 2012, 6:24 pm 6:24 pm
What do we R E A L L Y know about the man in the man we call president?
POSTED BY: DEANBOB
That dishonesty is his main character trait. That and a very adolescent type of narcissism.
Posted by: jobolo | May 10, 2012, 6:25 pm 6:25 pm
Obama is a very bad joke. POSTED BY: MR TIBBS *****************
and Romney is a nightmare waiting to happen. And your point is?
Posted by: michael | May 10, 2012, 6:27 pm 6:27 pm
DEANBOB AND MR TIBBS….those last ’3′ posts of yours (3 total). You know that that type of crap only appeals to the ‘dumbed down, uneducated voter’, don’t you? And that type of ‘voter’ iasn’t going to be the difference in this next election. So why do you do it?
Posted by: CND FOX | May 10, 2012, 7:13 pm 7:13 pm
This was all done for money. He will soon realize no matter how much money he collects he can not buy us off. I’m a little worried about him stealing the election. They have found over 3,000 illegals in Florida registers to vote and Holder will not send them the list of other illegals to verify. Scary the lengths this administration will go to to retain power.
Posted by: Freedom | May 10, 2012, 9:51 pm 9:51 pm
Did Clooney and Obama tie the knot last night or was It just another Obama clown party?
Posted by: stever | May 11, 2012, 7:04 am 7:04 am
This is not a national issue, regardless of what the LGBT lobby might have you think.
The biggest losers in all this will be the remnants of respect given to the Mainstream Media, who chose this story of evolutionary flip-flopping and the high school hair cut story over issues that mean something to all Americans in this election–like the economy, fiscal cliffs, etc. The priorities of our fourth estate are as misguided as the priorities of at least one of the other three estates in our government. No wonder we are getting so screwed up as a country.
Obama cares no more about the LGBT lobby than he cares for the rest of America. They are simply a means to his self-serving ends. Leave this story alone, ABC. Report something worthy of the trust people place in you.
Posted by: Mike Kelter | May 11, 2012, 7:13 am 7:13 am
I’m somewhat encouraged that most people understand it was mostly a calculated political move. Slowly the man is being exposed.
Posted by: newcountryman | May 11, 2012, 7:28 am 7:28 am
NEWCOUNTRYMAN…that is the thing that I really enjoy about people who think like you. LOL…if it is a calculated political move…it is based upon how and where our society is moving towards. And in the long run….that spells disaster for the GOP and conservative thinking. The President is the type of ‘actual leader’ our nation needs. Someone who can recognize that.
Posted by: CND FOX | May 11, 2012, 8:41 am 8:41 am
Obama is politically expedient, he sent out sentilnels, Biden and Duncan to scope out “sentiment” prior to his” revealing” evolution on gay marriage. Almost immediately a well crafted political ad promoting him came out. Then the MSM ran a story about a supposed bullying episode about Romney and bullying. ABC failed to report, according to the Blaze, ” Christine Lauber, the older sister of Romney’s classmate, John Lauber, claims she has no knowledge of the bullying incident involving her brother, who passed away from liver cancer in 2004. When ABC News showed Christine the story, she became agitated and somewhat emotional”. The MSM is now complicit in the deastruction of America and the promotional propagandizing of a failed communist president
Posted by: Jo | May 11, 2012, 9:28 am 9:28 am
Are there really that many “gay” people that it will seal the election for BO??
Posted by: dgh629 | May 11, 2012, 10:55 am 10:55 am
Mr. Fox, No, a “calculated political move” is solely intended to get votes. It’s never based on moving the country “forward” as you claim. You really suck up those campaign slogans don’t you. Oh, almost forgot….LOL.
Posted by: newcountryman | May 11, 2012, 10:59 am 10:59 am
tmferretti, Actually, I think you are correct about limiting a voting bloc to one group only ensures a controlled outcome. If you limited the voting to be allowed by only gay black women… See… It even sounds pathetic when I say it too. I don’t even feel comfortable about making remarks like that. Obama won’t be reelected, but it’s because he’s actually losing voters and was before he almost backed gay marriage.
Posted by: TexBork2012 | May 11, 2012, 12:03 pm 12:03 pm
““Does Marriage Matter?” ——- I tried to ask Rush Limbaugh’s first, second, third and fourth wives this question, but got no response. Same with the first and second Mrs. Newt Gingrich – nothing.” – Odin Dog of Dogs
Failure at something as important as Marriage doesn’t demean the institution.
The same can be said of the Presidency.
Rush and Newt failed at Marriage yet went back for another try.
Barack Hussein Obama has failed at being our president and yet he is trying to give it another try.
Nothing wrong with any of this.
Posted by: Noz | May 12, 2012, 10:09 am 10:09 am