[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: