So, I'm going to look at the positions of Clinton, Obama and Edwards when it comes to equal rights for our family. Frankly, they are similar and none are bad, but not perfect either. What I want to do is look at their positions in what they CAN do as president and not some "for or against gay marriage" statement. Since marriage laws are decided by states (courts, legislatures, governors) and not presidents or congress, whether a presidential candidate supports full marriage equality or not, isn't an issue. It's how they view the issues that THEY can do something about.
So, marriage equality on a federal level. There is one thing a president can practically do for my family: Support and sign a law repealing ALL of the "Defense of Marriage" act (signed by Bill Clinton). This law allows states to ignore other states' (Mass for now) laws on full marriage equality in one section and forbids the federal government from recognizing gay marriage from a state. For my family to realize full equality, be able to get married in Massachusetts and have that marriage not only be recognized by the federal government but also by other states (so I could move!), than both sections of the law need to be repealed. How do the top three candidates stand?
Edwards: Repeal of DOMA, though possibly only the state-to-state section.
Obama: Repeal of DOMA in it's entirety
Clinton: Repeal only of the federal section of DOMA.
Advantage: Obama.
I have to run now, but the other two issues I think are important and a president can do something about are ENDA and DADT. I'll write more about them this evening, but I'll just say now that all three candidates support both issues (Employment non-discrimination act and repeal of Don't-Ask-Don't Tell) pretty much equally as I can tell.
ENDA:
DADT:
So, when it concerns my family, specifically marriage, Obama comes out ahead.
Comments (2)
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Comment #104540 on January 9, 2008 1:45 PM |
Thanks. I was a little unhappy with all three but getting DOMA repealed and states honoring full faith and credit would be a start.
Comment #105208 on January 10, 2008 7:45 AM |