U.S. Senator Casey says he now supports gay marriage

U.S. Sen. Bob Casey says he now supports gay marriage, becoming the latest lawmaker to change positions on an issue now before the U.S. Supreme Court.

Casey, a Pennsylvania Democrat, said Monday he made the shift after reviewing the legal, public policy and civil rights questions involved.

In November, as he successfully sought a second term, Casey said he favored same-sex civil unions but did not take a position on same-sex marriage. He previously has voted to let gays and lesbians serve openly in the military and to repeal the “don’t ask, don’t tell” policy.

Casey, a Roman Catholic from Scranton, Pa., opposes abortion rights, except in cases of rape, incest or when the life of the mother is in danger.

Several other Democratic senators also recently announced they favor gay marriage.