Politicians react to the fall of the same-sex marriage ban

Wednesday was a historic day for the same-sex marriage fight, and everyone was impacted by the decision by Judge Crabtree. Of those people, politicians’ opinions and viewpoints are some of the most important. See their reactions (issued as statements) below:

Democratic Sen. Michael Bennet:

Today’s ruling affirms that anyone, regardless of their sexual orientation, should be able to marry the person they love. Same-sex couples deserve the same rights and opportunities under the law that Susan and I enjoy. This is another step in the march toward full marriage equality.

Democratic U.S. Rep. Jared Polis:

I am thrilled that Judge Crabtree has recognized that the Colorado ban on same sex marriage is a violation of due process and equal protection guarantees under the Fourteenth Amendment. More than that, he has recognized, as many of his peers across the country have, that marriage should be an institution of love and commitment, not prohibition and discrimination. I look forward to his ruling being upheld by the higher courts, and am confident marriage equality in Colorado is within sight.

Republican State Senator Kevin Lundberg:

Colorado’s marriage laws, and voter-approved constitutional provisions are still binding and in effect. We believe in the full constitutionality of the existing Colorado Marriage Amendment that marriage should be defined as a legal relationship between one man and one woman. However, while that issue is being reviewed in the courts, there is no excuse for violating the orders of the courts while the issue is under review.

Republican Colorado Attorney General John Suthers:

Judge Crabtree’s order reaffirms the fact that the fate of Colorado’s same-sex marriage law will rest with the United States Supreme Court. The Court properly found that the instability and uncertainty that would result from not staying the decision, including the issuance of marriage licenses by county clerks in the state, necessitated that the order be stayed. The county clerks are agents of the state and should be bound by the stay order. Judge Crabtree provides additional clarity that until the high court rules on the issue of same-sex marriage, Colorado’s current laws remain in place. While the legal debate regarding same-sex marriage continues, and many find the legal process frustrating, adherence to the rule of law will bring about the final resolution with the greatest certainty and legal legitimacy. That certainty and legitimacy is in the best interests of everyone, including gay couples who desire to marry.

Colorado House Speaker Mark Ferrandino:

The Supreme Court won’t issue a ruling on marriage until June 2015 at the absolute earliest. If Attorney General Suthers does not appeal today’s ruling, loving LGBTQ couples across the state will be allowed to marry and be treated equally under the law. I’m calling on Attorney General Suthers not to appeal today’s decision and to let the ruling go into effect. To oppose marriage equality is legally and morally wrong, and a waste of taxpayer dollars.