Lincoln Chafee Ties the Knot

“Rhode Island’s governor on Monday declared that the state will recognize same-sex marriages performed elsewhere, giving gay couples the same rights as heterosexual ones when it comes to health insurance and a slew of other benefits.” [WaPo, via TPM]

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Am I missing something? This strikes me as huge news — not just a personal statement of support, but practical action affirming the Constitution’s Full Faith & Credit clause — yet it’s not getting much play.

I know, Rhode Island, but still: Chafee has placed his bet.

Article IV, Section 1:

Full faith and credit shall be given in each state to the public acts, records, and judicial proceedings of every other state. And the Congress may by general laws prescribe the manner in which such acts, records, and proceedings shall be proved, and the effect thereof.

It’s the second line that Congress used to justify DOMA: That “precribing the manner” could be constitutionally interpreted as proscribing manner. Chafee can’t overturn DOMA on his own, of course, but legally recognizing the application of Full Faith & Credit is a significant act.

Chafee is a real piece of work, so this surprises me a bit – when he was in the Senate he boldy voted against W more than a few times … but only when W was going to get what he wanted anyway.

To the shock of no one, even Paultards, Ron Paul campaign adds ballast and sinks into well deserved oblivion.

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