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Smith: State Senate Doesn't Have Gay Marriage Votes Now
By
Jen Chung
Published Feb 8, 2009
Modified Feb 8, 2009
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By
Jen Chung
Published Feb 8, 2009
Modified Feb 8, 2009
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With Democratic control of the State Senate for the first time in 43 years, many hope that gay marriage will be legalized in NY State. However, at a Human Rights Campaign event last night, Senate Majority Leader Malcolm Smith said gay marriage probably won't pass this year: "Although we do not have the number of votes at this time needed to pass the marriage equality gender bill this legislative session, we are committed to pursuing its passage. And the question is not if; the question is when... But I’m going to need your help, and I’m going to need your prayers.” Gay marriage nearly split the Senate Democrats apart after the elections last fall,but Smith added, "We're winning in the court of public opinion. I believe that the opponents aren't gripped by the kind of all-consuming passion, if you will, to derail the rights of same-sex couples to unite under law."
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gay marriage
Malcolm Smith
state senate
Jen Chung
Jen Chung is a former WNYC and Gothamist editor.
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