Panelists answered: Was President Obama’s same-sex marriage declaration presidential leadership or political maneuvering?
Jim West: “I can’t look into the man’s mind, but I don’t see how supporting same-sex marriage would be a good political move.”
Richard Place: “Government didn’t create marriage, religion did. The only thing that government should be able to do is create a civil union. The interesting thing is that the Federal Government has no authority over either one so I would presume this was political maneuvering.”
Julie Morris: “True leadership means doing the right thing, despite the consequences. Coming out in favor of personal liberties, privacy, and civil rights upholds and reinforces our constitution.”
Bill Mifsud: “Political maneuvering for sure. This was a dramatic shift on the issue. There is a lot of behind the scenes implications on the issue. I am sure the latest polls state a strong public support for same-sex marriage and the November election is right around the corner.”
Steve Staloch: “Political leadership. Regardless of your position on same-sex marriage, Obama risks voter backlash in key Midwest and bible belt states; a gutsy move considering the election less than six months away.”
Nants Foley: “Neither! I believe the President was backed into the corner and forced to voice his personal opinion. To everyone fighting gay marriage, I say, “Give it up.” Legalization of gay marriage is going to happen.”
Frankie Gallagher: “There is no doubt whatsoever that his motive was pure political maneuvering. Now the campaign contributions come pouring in.”
Richard Herrera: “I believe it’s a sign of presidential leadership. It’s courageous, historic but risky. It’s a big gamble and we’ll know in a few months if it paid off.”
Marty Richman: “President Obama’s decision to support gay marriage was purely personal – but the timing of the public announcement was totally political.”
Louise Ledesma: “Leadership. Obama took a bold step forward for equal rights for gays. The “Human Rights Campaign” cites that there are 1,138 federal rights, protections and responsibilities automatically granted to married couples. Major ones include medical decisions and coverage, Social Security and disability benefits and tax rules. He said that he based this decision on his ‘Christian faith and the Golden Rule’.”
Ruth Erickson: “In 1996, Barack Obama was pro same-sex marriage. He changed his mind during the following years to oppose it and has now, as president, flip-flopped again to be in support. Whether it was to keep in line with Vice President Joe Biden’s remarks, to show the opposite position to Mitt Romney’s stance or his change in perspective after discussing the subject with his 10 and 13 year old daughters, we have to wonder how often President Obama will flip-flip in the future!”
