Governor Schwarzenegger Opposes Any Move to Overturn California Supreme Court Decision on Sam Sex Marriage—Ruling Celebrated by

[courtesy of California Progress Report]

By Frank D. Russo

Many have already commented on the California Supreme Court ruling this morning recognizing that marriage is a fundamental right that cannot be denied to same sex couples. Important is one from Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger. The Governor, whose attorneys sought to uphold California statutes and voter approved initiative which did not recognize same sex marriage, has reiterated his opposition to any ballot initiatives or others measures in this area, including ones to try to overturn the Court’s decision.

In a statement released, the Governor said: “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.”

California Assembly Speaker Karen Bass, in her second full day in her new position, had this to say:

“We are delighted with today’s State Supreme Court ruling allowing marriage equality in California. It is a true testament to advancing equality and to recognizing the right of all Californians to build a future with the person they love. We recently lost Mildred Loving, the woman whose marriage to a man of another race ushered in the Supreme Court ruling that made marriage colorblind. Today’s ruling is another important reminder that love will overcome.”

Darrell Steinberg, who will head the California Senate as President pro Tem at the end of this year’s session, was also strong in his support of the Court’s ruling, saying:

“I could not be more proud to be a Californian than I am today.

“We will look back at the struggle which led to this historic decision and ask, why the fight?

“After all, California should do everything to encourage loving, stable and committed relationships.

“The Court is on the right side of history.

Assemblyman Mark Leno, who has championed this issue as a top priority for years, made the following statement:

"Today's ruling is a supreme affirmation of the sanctity of the love that two people share with one another without regard to their gender, and a victory for all Californians who believe that people should have the opportunity to pursue their dreams on equal footing.

“I applaud the Supreme Court today for erasing hundreds of years of unconstitutional discrimination against loving and committed same sex couples. I also congratulate the brave couples who brought the case to court, as well as Mayor Newsom, City Attorney Herrera and the amazing legal team that successfully argued this historic case.

“I will continue to review the legal implications of today's ruling and, if it is determined to be necessary, draft any implementing legislation that may be needed or appropriate.

“With the conviction of its highest court and its legislature, California continues to lead the way in favor of the conservative principle that society is best served when loving couples who want to settle down with one another are all able to do so through the civil institution of marriage."