Commentary: Standing up for traditional marriage

St. Louis Daily Record & St. Louis Countian, Jun 10, 2008 by Gov Matt Blunt

Missourians made their voices heard in 2004 by defining marriage as between one man and one woman in our state's constitution. I believe, as do the majority of Missourians, that marriage is between one man and one woman and that we must protect traditional marriage. It is imperative that we stand up and defend the institution of marriage when it is attacked.

I was extremely disappointed that the California Supreme Court has thwarted the will of the people in their state by allowing same- sex marriage in their state. This is just the latest example of judges legislating from the bench and it reinforces the need for a constitutional protection at the highest level. We are standing on a precipice where judges are attempting to unravel traditional values without any regard for the views and values of the people.

It is also disappointing that the California Supreme Court would not delay their decision on same-sex marriage until after the voters of California decide again on this issue in the November election. The delay was requested on May 31, by attorneys general in Alaska, Colorado, Florida, Idaho, Michigan, Nebraska, New Hampshire, South Carolina, South Dakota and Utah.

Anyone who believes that traditional marriage is not under assault in our country needs only to look at the actions of the California Supreme Court. Their decisions reinforce the need to protect traditional marriage with an amendment to the U.S. Constitution. If we do not define marriage as between one man and one woman then judges will define it for us as the California Supreme Court has done.

The latest news from California is yet another clear indication of the need to protect traditional marriage within the United States Constitution. As I have said before, I urge all members of Missouri's Congressional delegation to support an amendment to protect traditional marriage.

I believe in traditional marriage and in 2004 stood with the majority of Missourians to protect traditional marriage by defining marriage as between one man and one woman in our state's constitution.

Matt Blunt is the governor of Missouri. A Republican, he was elected in 2004.