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Good News: Three Marriage Amendments Headed to Victory
by Devon Williams
Florida and Arizona on Tuesday became the 28th and 29th states to amend their constitutions to define marriage as the union between one man and one woman. California’s marriage amendment also appeared headed to victory.
Despite millions spent by gay activists to defeat the marriage initiatives, pro-family leaders in the three states led heroic campaigns to protect marriage from activist judges and lawmakers.
“It’s going to be important as we talk about this election, and make it very clear, it’s not a rejection of conservative values,” said Tony Perkins, president of FRC Action in Washington, D.C. “Politicians must make a more sincere effort to protect marriage if they want the support of values voters.”
In California, Proposition 8 would reverse the state’s Supreme Court decision that legalized same-sex “marriage” earlier this year.
“We know God has gone before us,” said Ron Prentice, executive director of the California Family Council. “Tens of thousands of people were praying over the weekend … praying and fasting for 40 days to give victory to California and protect marriage.”
Arizona voters, who narrowly rejected a marriage-protection amendment two years ago, supported Proposition 102 this time around.
“When we unite together around timeless value like marriage, we can win,” said Cathi Herrod, president of The Center for Arizona Policy. “I hope this is a new beginning of pulling together on issues we care most about.”
Florida’s Amendment 2 received the 60 percent support it needed to pass — and a few extra percentage points.
“This is a victory for children and for the future of Florida,” said Mathew Staver, founder and chairman of the Liberty Counsel. “Amendment 2 will prevent activist judges from redefining marriage by the stroke of a pen.”
John Stemberger, chairman of the Florida Coalition to Protect Marriage, said he can’t take credit for the victory.
“There are a couple of hundred people standing behind me who did the work,” he said. “I just pointed the way.
“I felt the Lord called me to do this, and I was fortunate to have state leaders support me.”
Kelly Shackelford, president of the Free Market Foundation in Texas, said he is encouraged by the results and hopeful for the future.
“People of this country do believe marriage is one man and one woman,” he said. “I think it’s a tribute to pastors –- pastors of different denominations and races locking arms. That’s encouraging for the future.”