A round-up of comments from this year’s candidates on today’s marriage equality ruling, which has paved the way for gay marriage in Arizona:
Congressman Ron Barber:
Today is an historic day in Arizona — a day that is long overdue — as each of our fellow citizens now has the right to make a legally binding, lifelong commitment to the person they love.
With today’s ruling by U.S. District Court Judge John Sedwick and the acknowledgment by Arizona Attorney General Tom Horne that the ruling is binding on Arizona, our state now joins the many others where a ban on same-sex marriages has been ruled unconstitutional.
I am overjoyed that all Arizonans will now be able to have the same rights and the same responsibilities that my wife Nancy and I have shared during our 47 years of marriage.
Democrat Fred DuVal, candidate for governor:
As Americans, our civil rights must never be denied. As Arizonans, we believe that liberty is a cause worth fighting for. This ruling sends an emphatic message that no one should be treated differently under the law because of who they are or who they love.
Couples in committed relationships who want to marry should not face interference from politicians of either party. Marriage equality is a just cause, and now is the time for families to celebrate their newfound freedom.
Republican Doug Ducey, candidate for governor:
Attorney General Horne made the right decision regarding an appeal. I accept the determination of the courts and will honor their decision.
Democratic Congresswoman Ann Kirkpatrick:
Today is a great day for all Arizonans and their loved ones. I have long said that our government should treat every person equally regardless of who they love. And while today shows we have come a long way, we must remain steadfast in our efforts to move our state forward.
Republican Speaker of the Arizona House Andy Tobin, who is challenging Kirkpatrick:
I agree with the determination to honor the decision of the court. As a legal matter, I support the rule of law and the finality of this determination and recognized this issue is now settled.
Democrat Terry Goddard, candidate for Secretary of State:
Today’s legal decision isn’t just a victory for gay and lesbian Arizonans whose equality under the law is rightfully being recognized. Today is a recognition that basic fairness trumps short-term political interests and crass attempts to divide our state.
It was only nine months ago that the Arizona legislature voted to legalize discrimination by passing SB1062. Today, we’re celebrating diversity and equality.
I want to congratulate every Arizonan who fought for this day. When I first started working and campaigning with LGBT groups in the early 1980s, it was hard to believe this day would come. I can’t express how glad I am that it has.
I hope today’s news gives politicians more courage in the future to stand with communities who aren’t being treated fairly—no matter what the political pressure.
Congressman Raul Grijalva:
Today, Arizona joined 30 other states and the District of Columbia in recognizing that marriages should be determined by the love two people share — not by who those two people happen to be. History shows how freedoms and rights that are not extended to everyone are not secure for anyone. The push for marriage equality across America is an acknowledgement of that fact, and I am glad that Arizona is on the right side of history on this issue.
This issue speaks to who we are as a nation. The rights and liberties we cherish must be secure for every American, period. While today’s ruling is a tremendous step in the right direction, our work on this issue will not be done until every state and territory in the United States recognizes same sex marriages as Constitutionally protected and not subject to the whims or judgments of anyone except the two people involved.
Dr. Randall Friese, candidate for the Arizona House of Representatives in Legislative District 9:
My wife Susan and I could not be happier that marriage equality has finally come to Arizona. This is truly a monumental day. On a personal note, it is especially exciting as this is also our seventh wedding anniversary. Susan and I will now have two things to celebrate every Oct. 17.
This article appears in Oct 16-22, 2014.
It is so funny to read comments about protecting freedom and rights from elected officials that steal them from us every day.
You just aren’t smart enough to catch them.
My comment: Gay and Lesbians can now go from Living In Sin to … we’re not sure yet. Nothing significant will change in the lives of men and boys in Arizona who have been eloping for years. What will change is the livestyle of Divorce Attorneys and the Real Estate Agents selling them upscaled homes. But to have the first double-shotgun wedding in Arizona today that has to count for something.
The liberal’s. The party of the blind, leading the blind. Who desire to drag our country through the mud and filth claiming that the constitution has given them the right to do so. It’s to the point they have completely lost touch with common sense and decency. And are now at this point in time totally incapable of making any kind of rational judgment pertaining to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.
I see the Republicans all talk about accepting the rule of law, instead of good wishes to those who now have marriage equality. You can tell they’re seething.
And Martha McSally? Again, as always, silent. Send her back to the Bone Yard
Why is it necessary for ANY politician to comment? Our president does his best work when he keeps his mouth shut.
Now any two persons can marry, next step is three persons can marry. Its only right that all people can be happy.
Harlan, on that comment I will agree wholeheartedly. I want as many women around me as I can possibly make happy. No more miserable spinsters & widows. A chicken in every pot.
Oh, oh. Looks like someone is upset for me not including them on my list.
Can I marry my self or can I walk up and just claim I’m married to some one? I Demand equal rights I am now married to Jlo! If their going to make a joke a enduring institution might add well go all the way.