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Bob Turner on Civil Rights
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The ship has sailed on gay marriage; focus elsewhere
Over all, the debate showcased far more policy similarities than differences--all three candidates said they supported hydraulic fracturing, for instance. But they tussled ever so slightly even in areas where they agreed, like same-sex marriage.
Maragos criticized Wendy Long for not publicly advocating the repeal of same-sex marriage in New York. Long said that was not her role, given that she was not a state lawmaker, but Maragos pressed further, saying it was her duty, since she had the
backing of the State Conservative Party--a distinction that Long has eagerly publicized.
Turner was not eager to discuss the subject. "This ship has sailed in New York," he said. "I want to keep the focus on jobs and the economy.
The Gillibrand record, the Obama record--that's what this is going to be about."
In a lightning round of questions, Long said she would refuse to attend a same-sex wedding on principle.
Source: New York Times on 2012 N.Y. Senate debates
, Jun 17, 2012
Supports domestic partnerships, not same-sex marriage
Turner has said he personally supports the 1996 federal Defense of Marriage Act, which defines marriage as a legal union between one man and one woman. The act says no state can be forced to recognize another state's same-sex
marriage license. An observer said, "Bob Turner has the same position as President Obama, [who] supports legal partnerships, [but not same-sex marriage]."
Source: New York Daily News, "Marty Golden"
, Apr 16, 2012
Page last updated: Jun 22, 2012