June 29 - Minnesota Next Battleground for Homosexual Marriage

Although Republicans who were strong-armed by Governor Andrew Cuomo were key to same-sex marriage passing in New York, voters are a much harder sell. Pro-marriage organizations such as the National Organization for Marriage and the Minnesota Family Council have a 31-state winning streak on their side when it comes to putting the issue before the people. Interestingly, former Governor Tim Pawlenty and Rep. Michele Bachmann will each have their own say in the matter since both are registered voters in the state. Both Pawlenty and Bachmann support a federal constitutional amendment defining marriage as between one man and one woman.

In 2004, then state Senator Michele Bachmann introduced a marriage amendment that was defeated. The state’s governor at the time was Tim Pawlenty who promised to sign any pro-marriage legislation that crossed his desk.

“Our legislature wisely decided to let the people decide the issue of marriage – not politicians or activist judges,” said Darrell. “For an eighteen month period people are going to talk about the issue around the dinner table, at work and at the coffee shop. I’m confident Minnesotans will come to the conclusion that marriage is important and needs to be protected. We’re looking forward to a civilized debate on the issue.”

Monica Meyer of OutFront Minnesota told AP, “These ballot measures are so expensive and so divisive. If we can defeat this, it sends a strong message that at some point soon these things just aren’t going to be brought up at all anymore.”

Bobbie Patray of Eagle Forum of Tennessee is no stranger to marriage issues. In 2006, she was a key player in helping pass Tennessee's constitutional amendment, stating marriage was between one man and one woman.  “My concern is how and when we use the word ‘marriage,’” said Patray. “Marriage is defined biblically as a covenant between one man and one woman. Anything else is simply a union or a legal contract. When voters are reminded of the true definition of marriage, they tend to agree it should be between a man and a woman.”