Minnesota Governor Mark Dayton on Wednesday reiterated his support for gay marriage.

Dayton, a Democrat, made his remarks in his State of the State address.

“Let me mention one other cause, which is controversial, but consistent with my faith and my principles,” Dayton told lawmakers. “And, more importantly, consistent with this country's founding principles and its Constitution. I believe that every Minnesotan should have the freedom to marry legally the person she or he loves, whether of the same or other sex.”

“Last year, Minnesotans began a conversation about why marriage matters, and we found our common belief that it is about love, commitment and responsibility. I want Minnesota to be a state which affirms that freedom for one means freedom for everyone, and where no one is told it is illegal to marry the person you love.”

Dayton opposed last fall's unsuccessful referendum which sought to limit marriage to heterosexual couples. Supporters are now mounting a campaign to legalize marriage equality in Minnesota.

Other governors who have recently mentioned gay rights in high-profile speeches include Pat Quinn of Illinois, Jack Markell of Delaware and John Hickenlooper of Colorado.