New York's Schumer Flips, Backs Gay Marriage

Sen. Charles Schumer now supports full marriage rights for same-sex couples, the New York Daily News reports. The New York Democrat, who was on the record as a proponent of civil unions, also wants to repeal the Defense of Marriage Act, which he himself voted for. “It’s time,” Schumer said in a statement. “Equality is something that has always been a hallmark of America and no group should be deprived of it.”

“New York, which has always been at the forefront on issues of equality, is appropriately poised to take a lead on this issue,” Schumer continued. A marriage-rights bill is currently making its way through the New York legislature. Gay-rights activists were thrilled. “Like a majority of New Yorkers,” one said, “Sen. Schumer recognizes that only marriage equality provides same sex couples the status, protections, and rights afforded to all other Americans.”