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No matter what opinion you hold about the same sex marriage decision which initiated in my home state of Massachusetts, here are some little known facts about the Justices that formed the majority.
Most Republican and conservative pundits were so quick to pounce on this issue to create a wedge by using the "Massachusetts Liberal" label on John Kerry. They used this issue to point out that Senator Kerry represents such a "radical" state that is so far out of the main stream of American thought and culture. For those who hold this opinion, here are some facts that you might not be aware of.
The Supreme Judaical Court of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts is comprised of seven members, each appointed by the Governor and confirmed by a Governor's Council.
The decision permitting "same sex" marriage was approved by a vote of 4-3. Of the four Justices voting in the majority, three were appointed by Republican Governors. Margaret Marshall was appointed to the bench by Republican Governor William Weld, and promoted to Chief Justice by Republican Governor Paul Cellucci. Justice Roderick Ireland and Justice Judith Cowin were both appointed to the bench by Republican Governor Paul Cellucci.
Bill Weld was one of George Bush's (the father) earliest and strongest supporters, not only in the General Elections, but in the early primaries in New Hampshire and Massachusetts in 1980, 1984, and 1988. Weld later opposed John Kerry for U.S. Senator with the elder Bush supporting him, only to be defeated.
Paul Cellucci was one of George Bush's (the son) earliest and strongest supporters not only in the General Election, but in the early primaries in New Hampshire and Massachusetts in 2000. Cellucci was later rewarded by George Bush (the son) with the appointment of U.S. Ambassador to Canada, a position he currently holds.
So, if you have a Repuke trying to tarnish our Presidential candidate by some sort of guilt by association while trying to make his point, let him know that the facts of this story point to two Republican Presidents named Bush and their allies who got this whole thing started.
Isn't it funny how facts can get in the way of a good story!!!
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