WATCH: House GOP keeps traditional views 10 years after gay marriage was legalized
A decade after the Supreme Court legalized gay marriage in the United States, some Republican leaders still hold on to the traditional definition of marriage as being between a man and a woman. Fox News Digital recently had the opportunity to speak with several Republican lawmakers on the 10th anniversary of Obergefell v. Hodges, the groundbreaking decision that mandated all states to legally recognize and authorize same-sex marriages.
Despite their personal beliefs, many Republican lawmakers have stated that preventing same-sex couples from marrying is no longer a legislative priority. Representative Jodey Arrington of Texas expressed his view that marriage should be between a man and a woman, which he considers to be the foundation of civil societies and strong nations. However, he emphasized that he respects individuals who hold different views, whether they are part of same-sex marriages or simply supportive of them.
Arrington, a self-described “rule of law guy,” drew parallels between the Supreme Court’s ruling on gay marriage and the recent Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization decision that overturned Roe v. Wade. He stressed that while he may have philosophical differences on the definition of marriage, he acknowledges the court’s decision as the law of the land.
Similarly, Representative Cory Mills of Florida echoed Arrington’s sentiments, stating that while he personally believes marriage should be between a man and a woman, he does not believe the federal government should intervene in personal matters such as relationships.
Other Republican lawmakers, including Representative Michael Rulli of Ohio and Representative Rich McCormick of Georgia, also shared their personal beliefs while acknowledging the Supreme Court’s ruling on gay marriage. Rulli, a devout Roman Catholic, emphasized the importance of individual choice in a country like America, while McCormick highlighted the diversity of beliefs and the need to respect the court’s decisions.
In conclusion, while some Republican lawmakers may still hold traditional views on marriage, they have accepted the Supreme Court’s ruling on gay marriage as the law of the land. Despite their personal beliefs, they emphasize the importance of individual choice and respect for the rule of law.
