New York's Schumer Flips, Backs Gay Marriage

Sen. Charles Schumer now supports full marriage rights for same-sex couples, the New York Daily News reports. The New York Democrat, who was on the record as a proponent of civil unions, also wants to repeal the Defense of Marriage Act, which he himself voted for. “It’s time,” Schumer said in a statement. “Equality is something that has always been a hallmark of America and no group should be deprived of it.”

“New York, which has always been at the forefront on issues of equality, is appropriately poised to take a lead on this issue,” Schumer continued. A marriage-rights bill is currently making its way through the New York legislature. Gay-rights activists were thrilled. “Like a majority of New Yorkers,” one said, “Sen. Schumer recognizes that only marriage equality provides same sex couples the status, protections, and rights afforded to all other Americans.” (More Chuck Schumer stories.)