The National Organization for Marriage (NOM) has condemned passage of a gay marriage bill in New Jersey.

The New Jersey Assembly on Thursday approved the bill after lawmakers held a lengthy and emotional debate, just days after the Senate approved marriage equality.

The historic votes did not sit well with NOM, the nation's most vociferous opponent of gay marriage, which once called New Jersey home.

“Democrats in the New Jersey Assembly today walked off a cliff when they decided to redefine marriage to accommodate the political demands of same-sex couples,” NOM President Brian Brown said in a statement. “They have ensured themselves of the united opposition of people of faith when they next face voters.”

Brown also praised Governor Chris Christie's promised “swift” veto of the measure.

“We are grateful to have a principled Governor in Chris Christie who has pledged to veto this legislation,” Brown said.

Brown added that his group would work to defeat the reelection efforts of lawmakers who voted for the measure.

“Redefining marriage is not going to happen in New Jersey. NOM will join with the community of faith and all conservatives to ensure that every legislator who voted to kick God's definition of marriage to the curb pays the ultimate price when they face voters. We will not forget this betrayal of marriage.”