Gay Marriage Coming to Washington

Washington could soon become the 7th state to legalize gay marriage. Senator Mary Margaret Haugen released a statement today saying that she would support the measure which gives the senate the 25 votes it needs to pass the legislation.

The Associated Press reports that the House already has enough support and Governor Chris Gregoire has already come out in support of gay marriage.

In her statement, Haugen said that she has very strong Christian believes and believes that marriage should be between a man and a woman. But Haugen acknowledged that this wasn’t about her personal beliefs. Haugen said:

“I have always believed in traditional marriage between a man and a woman. That is what I believe, to this day. But this issue isn’t about just what I believe. It’s about respecting others, including people who may believe differently than I. It’s about whether everyone has the same opportunities for love and companionship and family and security that I have enjoyed.”

The LA Times reports that Governor Chris Gregoire said earlier this month that she would introduce legislation to legalize gay marriage. Gregoire said:

“It’s time, it’s the right thing to do. I say that as a wife, a mother, a student of the law and above all as a Washingtonian with a lifelong commitment to equality and freedom.”

Gay marriage is currently already legal in New York, Connecticut, Iowa, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Vermont.