Elections have consequences!!!!!
In November, Democrats swept the top three elected positions in Virgina -- Gov, Lt Gov, and Attorney General.
Four individuals (a gay male couple and a gay female couple) sued to overturn Virginia's constitutional ban on same-gender marriage. Attorney General Mark Herring (D) refused to defend the ban, leading to vicious attacks on Herring by Republicans.
Late Thursday night, 13 Feb, Federal Judge Arenda L. Wright Allen, Federal District Court for Eastern Virginia, ruled the ban is unconstitutional.
Here's the decision:
http://legaltimes.typepad.com/...
Please note: This decision is stayed pending appeal meaning the ban will remain in effect while appeals are heard.
Quotes from the ruling:
"We have arrived upon another moment in history when We the People becomes more inclusive, and our freedom more perfect."
"VA's Marriage Laws unconstitutionally deny VA's gay and lesbian citizens the fundamental freedom to choose to marry."
"VA law that bars same-sex marriage or prohibits VA's recognition of lawful same-sex marriages from other jurisdictions unconstitutional."
"Laws deny Plaintiffs their rights to due process & equal protection guaranteed under the 14th Amendment of US Constitution."
"Court stays execution of this injunction pending the final disposition of any appeal to the Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals."