Local officials react to marriage ruling
Ohio politicians are reacting to the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision today in favor of marriage equality.
Columbus Mayor Michael Coleman (D)
“I am pleased with the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn the ban on same-sex marriage because it represents true equality for all, regardless of who they love. This decision reflects the inclusiveness and support for marriage equality for same-sex couples in Columbus, the state of Ohio and throughout the nation.”
U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown (D)
“Today the Supreme Court has finally put our nation on the right side of history. Marriage equality is now the law of the land across our country, including in Ohio, and states should immediately begin issuing marriage licenses to same-sex couples, who have waited too long already. This decision comes in no small part because of the courage of Ohioan Jim Obergefell, and all those who have fought for marriage equality. Anyone who has heard Jim tell his story can’t fail to be moved. It’s long past time that our laws recognized his marriage and all other same-sex marriages. While today we celebrate this momentous step forward for equality, we know our work is not yet finished. We must continue fighting discrimination against LGBT Americans and all other communities. The arc of history is bending a little further toward justice today, but our work to create a more perfect union, with equality and justice for all, continues.”
U.S. Senator Rob Portman (R)
“The issue of marriage equality is one that divides people of principle, and I understand that. In 2013, I decided to support marriage equality after I came to understand this issue better in the context of my own family. I can’t help but view today’s Supreme Court decision through that same lens. And as a father, I welcome today’s decision. As I have said before, I would have preferred for this issue to be resolved by the democratic process in the states because I think you build a more lasting consensus that way. Now that the Court has reached its decision, I hope we can move past the division and polarization the issue has caused.”
Ohio Attorney General Mike DeWine (R)
“The Attorney General’s Office has an obligation and duty to defend the constitutionality of Ohio laws, including constitutional amendments passed by Ohio voters. Ohio’s involvement in this case has been to defend the voter-passed amendment. While Ohio argued that the Supreme Court should let this issue ultimately be decided by the voters, the Court has now made its decision.”
Congresswoman Joyce Beatty (D)
“I join others across the nation today in recognizing the Supreme Court’s ruling in Obergefell v. Hodges striking down Ohio’s marriage ban—and ruling in favor of marriage equality nationwide! This is a historic day for the LGBT community and their families. Now same-sex couples have all the rights, recognitions, and security that marriage confers. Across the nation they can live with dignity and equality.”
Congressman Pat Tiberi (R)
“As a Roman Catholic, I believe that marriage is between a man and a woman. Today, the Supreme Court ruled that the legal institution of marriage is open to all individuals, regardless of sexual preference. They did not rule that a religious view of marriage is unconstitutional, but that the 14th Amendment means the government cannot take a religious view of marriage. Thus, the decision doesn’t force religious institutions to perform marriages against their beliefs. While my personal religious views differ from the court decision, all sides must be respectful of each other’s views as we move forward.”
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