Minnesota Representative John Kriesel (R-Cottage Grove) is a 1st term Republican and disabled veteran. He came out against the Anti-Gay Marriage amendment right after it was introduced. He was one of the four republicans to vote no on the amendment.
Here is his speech during the debate on Saturday, May 21, 2011.
Since it a long speech, I will give highlights:
5-6 years ago, he would have voted yes, but his injury in Iraq changed his mind.
Happiness is hard to find, but if you find someone you love it is wrong to say you can't marry that person.
He proud of his stance, because it is the right thing to do.
The amendment doesn't represent what he fought for.
At 3:03, Kriesel talked about Cpl Andrew Wilfart, a gay soldier who died in Iraq in February.
Would vote HELL NO if he can.
He says he will be on the right side of history.
Congratulations to John Kriesel, Tim Kelly (R-Red Wing), Rich Murray (R-Albert Lea), and Steve Smith (R-Mound) who voted no.
Boos to Denise Dittrich (DFL-Champlin) and Lyle Koenen (DFL-Clara City) for voting yes.