Straight Talk With Sam - Protecting Marriage

Volume 4, Issue 41, October 11, 2004

STRAIGHT TALK WITH SAM
Protecting Marriage

Earlier this month, Congress voted on an amendment to the United States Constitution that would make marriage a union between a man and a woman only. While a majority of the House agreed with this legislation it fell short of the two-thirds vote necessary to amend the Constitution. This change would also need to be adopted by two-thirds of the Senate and three-fourths of state assemblies.

I voted for this important legislation because I believe that marriage is only between a man and a woman. The institution of marriage is an important part of this country's character. It helps define who we are and what we believe as a people.
Missourians spoke very clearly on this issue in August, when you passed a similar amendment to the Missouri Constitution overwhelmingly. Its' as important to me as it is to you that we fight for our values. I will always vote to protect marriage from those who would change it.

This amendment would never have been discussed had it not been for activist judges rewriting the rules of marriage. I share your frustration with unelected judges issuing edicts from the bench. I believe that any change in the status of marriage can only be decided by the people.

The House will vote on this issue in future Congresses. I will continue to vote for this amendment so that Judges are not confused about the definition of marriage. Like most Missourians, I believe marriage always has been and always should be between a man and a woman only.