Long ago, I argued that the Federal Marriage Amendment could become a wedge issue – for the Democrats. It unites the Dems in defense of civil rights and the constitution and has already worsened the splits among Republicans between the Santorum theocrats and the old-school conservatives. I’ve also long pointed out that the amendment as introduced would clearly make civil unions and domestic partnerships unconstitutional – and that is indeed one of the reasons the Allard version might not even get a simple majority. It’s not over yet, but the signs are ominous for the religious right:
Republicans apparently were taken by surprise when Democrats, sensing a huge victory, offered to lift their own objections and proceed to direct consideration of the measure. As many as a dozen Republicans, various aides and lobbyists said, might bolt from their party on the issue. Many Republicans have long been wary of federal intrusion on what has always been a state domain, believing an amendment would violate their basic principle of keeping the federal government out of state matters. Many also have expressed concern that the current wording of the Federal Marriage Amendment also would ban civil unions and domestic partnerships that are considered legal alternatives to marriage.
Could Bush have destroyed the relationship between gays and the GOP, and wrecked what reputation he has left as a uniter rather than divider for … nothing?
The Dish 