[ronald_reagan]

I think that the equal protection clause of the US Constitution should be extended to cover same sex unions. Same sex partners, it seems to me, should be able to get the same kinds of benefits from civil union that heterosexuals get in marriage. I believe the issue does not need to enter into the realm of theological debate. If the US were a theocracy, maybe. However, the US is a constitutional democracy. The civil authority can grant rights without entering into the whole "Adam and Steve/Eve" morass.

The federal government shouldn't be in the business of morality anyways. Other than on matter of life, limb, and property.

And the only 2 reasons that the federal government cares about marriage is for tax purposes (if they support gay rights), and votes from the religious right (if they don't.).

I don't think however that it should be a constitutional issue that blankets the nation. The vast majority of the states and people do not support it.. I think it should be a state rights issue I suppose. I'm somewhat conflicted though.