The N.J. gay marriage debate: legislation or referendum?
Democrats in Trenton have pledged to push a gay marriage bill in the Legislature. Gov. Chris Christie wants the issue to be decided by voter referendum. What side do you stand on?
The subject of Wednesday’s “Radio Times” was the same-sex marriage debate in New Jersey. Specifically, the question was “Should same-sex marriage in New Jersey be put to a vote?”
Tell us what you thinkin the comments below.
A 2006 N.J. Supreme Court civil union ruling gave same-sex couples all the benefits and responsibilities of heterosexual marriage, but legal activists contend that the law has not produced that equality and that forbidding gay marriage is a civil rights violation.
Democratic allies in Trenton have vowed to press on in the Legislature. However, Gov. Chris Christie last week said that the issue should be put to voters through a general referendum.
Civil rights leaders criticize the governor, saying that civil rights have historically been secured through the legislative process, not in the voting booth.
What side do you stand on? Is a referendum the appropriate tool to settle the issue, or should the question of gay marriage be decided through legislation?
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