Arkansas officials and political activists respond to the U.S. Supreme Court’s 5-4 ruling legalizing same-sex marriage in all 50 states.
“I am disappointed that the justices have chosen to ignore the role of the States to define marriage. The justices have issued a decision, and that decision must be followed.” — Attorney General Leslie Rutledge, in a news release
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“Now, more than ever, we must work to ensure the closely held religious beliefs of millions of Americans are protected.” — U.S. Rep. Steve Womack, R-Ark., in a news release
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“It is also important to note that the Supreme Court decision is directed at the states to allow and recognize marriage between two people of the same sex. It is not a directive for churches or pastors to recognize same-sex marriage. The decision for churches, pastors and individuals is a choice that should be left to the convictions of conscience.” — Gov. Asa Hutchinson, in a news release
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“Today is a milestone for same-sex couples, and we celebrate with them. But it is also crucial to recognize that the job is not finished. LGBT Arkansans can still be fired from their jobs for who they are. Today … all people are more free under the law. We should all celebrate that.” — Vince Insalaco, chairman of the Democratic Party of Arkansas, in a news release
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“I respectfully disagree with the court’s ruling.” — U.S. Sen. John Boozman, R-Ark., in a news release
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“The opinion of five lawyers, not elected by the American people, should not and cannot define what millions of Americans affirm as the true and divine institution of marriage. Despite ruling two years previous that this decision rightly belonged to the elected officials in each state, the Supreme Court today removed the people’s right to uphold their own beliefs, which are based on deeply held religious and personal convictions, and instead chose to force their own definition of marriage onto the entire country.” — U.S. Rep. Rick Crawford, R-Ark., in a news release
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“Never giving in. I am dedicated to restoring religious liberty & states rights. I am standing in the gap - it is here I shall live or die.” — state Sen. Jason Rapert, R-Bigelow, via Twitter
