You know about Prop 8 in California. But did you know that gay marriage bans are on the ballot in two other states, as well? A constitutional ban on the ballot in Florida would outlaw marriage for gay couples and domestic partnership for all couples. A Mason-Dixon poll found 55 percent of Floridians favor the measure, but 60 percent support is needed for it to become law. Arizona rejected a gay marriage/domestic partnership ban in 2006, becoming the first state to do so. But this year's Proposition 102, which doesn't penalize hetero domestic partners, is likely to pass. Proponents of the Arizona and Florida ban are showing the same slick, nostalgia-fueled TV ads funded by Focus on the Family, slightly edited to fit each state. The Arizona version is below. The equality crowd in Florida has a smart commercial appealing to straight folks' desire to have domestic partnership rights. That message is especially applicable to retirees, who may get into serious relationships after the death of a spouse without remarrying. In Arizona, opponents feature soft-focus brides and grooms, but segue into a more libertarian, anti-government message, which is a good fit for the state.
Previous ballot initiative ad features: North Dakota abortion ban - Colorado “right to work” - Colorado's “personhood” amendment - California's anti-gay marriage amendment --Dana Goldstein
