For the first time since the Public Policy Institute of California started keeping track, a majority (50 percent) of Californians favor allowing same-sex marriage. In their statistical samples, the number had never risen above 45 percent. This is consistent with Nate Silver's statistical prediction showing California would "turn" in 2010 -- and also good news for those currently collecting signatures to put a Prop. 8 repeal on the ballot this year. Love, Honor, Cherish has gone ahead with the repeal effort in spite of opposition from Equality California, the group that spearheaded the "No on 8" campaign, which is shooting for 2012. However, the groups did collaborate on the initiative's proposed language:
Marriage is between only two persons and shall not be restricted on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, gender, sexual orientation, or religion.
The sooner Prop. 8 is repealed -- or overturned by a court -- the better, but I must admit that I am hesitant to push for 2010 at the risk of another demoralizing defeat.
-- Gabriel Arana
