California Governor Arnold
Schwarzenegger said Wednesday that he agrees with a federal judge's
ruling that struck down the state's gay marriage ban.
Chief
U.S. District Judge Vaughn Walker's ruling states that Proposition 8
violates the constitutional rights of gay and lesbian couples who
wish to marry. Opponents say they'll appeal the ruling.
Voters approved the measure by a narrow
margin on November 4, 2008. The law put an end to gay and lesbian
weddings taking place in the state after the California Supreme Court
legalized the institution.
Walker's ruling “affirms the full
legal protections and safeguards I believe everyone deserves,”
Schwarzenegger said in a statement.
“There are strong feelings on both
sides of this issue, and I am glad that all viewpoints were respected
throughout the proceedings,” he added.
The Republican governor has previously
stumbled on the issue of gay rights. For example, last year he
signed a bill that sets aside Harvey Milk's May 22 birthday to honor
the slain gay rights leader. Only a year earlier he had vetoed the
legislation.