Washington Guv: We Will Legalize Gay Marriage

Washington Gov. Chris Gregoire firmly declared her support for gay marriage yesterday, announcing that she will propose a law legalizing it in the state. For the past seven years, Gregoire has given vague answers on the topic, but she said it is her head and her heart leading her to support gay marriage now—as opposed to the fact that she is not seeking re-election. She says she's struggled with the issue because of her Catholic religion but, says, "I feel so much better today than I have for the last seven years."

Gregoire is determined to get the bill passed in the legislative session that begins Monday, the Seattle Times reports. The Democratic state senator and representative leading the charge say they're optimistic, but a few more votes are still needed in the Senate. Despite the fact that Democrats hold the majority in both the state Senate and House, some conservative Democrats have opposed rights for same-sex couples. Opponents plan to fight the issue and may even bring it before voters. (More Christine Gregoire stories.)