February 19, 2012 | Sex & Society

Chris Christie vetoes New Jersey gay marriage bill

As promised, Gov. Chris Christie has vetoed New Jersey's recently passed gay marriage bill.

He claimed that there was no fundamental constitutional right to same-sex marriage. He also said that gay couples in his state already benefit from civil unions, giving them the same rights as married couples. However, he added that he would be willing to create an ombudsman to oversee any issues of discrimination couples in civil unions may have faced.

"I have been just as adamant that same-sex couples in a civil union deserve the very same rights and benefits enjoyed by married couples — as well as the strict enforcement of those rights and benefits," Christie said.

Christie has also insisted that the issue of gay marriage should be put to the people in a referendum.

Senate President Steve Sweeney said the veto was "a shameful act hidden behind the guise of a public referendum."

"Today, he firmly planted his feet on the wrong side of history," Sweeney said. "He certainly does not deserve whatever credit he will probably receive for maintaining his misguided position. He had a chance to do the right thing, and failed miserably."

Christie has been touted as a possible 2016 Republican presidential candidate, so our cynical side says he wants to do the right thing, but is being held back because of the power of the cultural conservatives in his party.  Hey Christie, grow a pair!

Chris Christie says no to N.J. gay marriage bill, would agree to strengthen civil union law []