Some Surprising Facts About Mass. Same Sex Decision

[louis c]

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!!!

[fsbooks]

1. Thanks for the info.

It is good to know.

[Kathy in Cambridge]

2. Old Mass Republicans like Weld and Cellucci

are a far cry from the Mormon homophobe currently holding the office.

BTW I noticed you were from Re-VE-AH. Welcome from another Masshole!

:hi:

[louis c]

4. Revere is my home town

[Raven]

3. Fabulous information!

kick! Thanks!

[Kathy in Cambridge]

5. KICK

[louis c]

6. I'm really suprised.............

that I didn't get more reaction to this thread.

When I researched this with an Attorney friend of mine, I thought this was very surprising, and would be especially interesting and informative to DUers who reside outside of Mass.

[Kathy in Cambridge]

7. I thought so too

oh well...

[louis c]

8. When Bush Assails

the "activist Judges from Mass." line, this seems like a hell of a comeback

Even if Kerry doesn't use it, shouldn't some pundit from our side bring it up? Don't we have talking points? Doesn't anyone from our side get to respond?

[welshTerrier2]

11. not to worry, louis ...

your research is excellent but this info was posted numerous times on DU during the Mass. Constitutional Convention ... that might explain the limited reaction ... who knows ...

still, it's a great reminder to help shut-up those who believe the american judiciary could be replaced with a computer program ... what a bunch of macaroons ...

when we strip human judgment and legal interpretation from our system of justice, no justice will remain ...

[blm]

13. I always assumed that this issue was brought forward intentionally.

The GOP operatives have been plotting against a Kerry campaign since the Nixon White House and they always had operatives working ESPECIALLY in Massachusetts. Ever wonder why Kerry's hometown papers gave him as bad of press over the last 20 yrs. as the Moonie Times or the New York Post?

[louis c]

9. I hope you can use it.

[Yupster]

10. My opinion is

when there is such a major change made to the history, tradition and laws of the USA, the change to the law should come from the voters, or their elected legislators, not from judges.

Laws are supposed to be passed by legislatures, not courts -- and I have no problem with same sex marriages. I just think laws should be made by lawmakers.

[scarletwoman]

12. Something I've wondered about...

I already knew about those appointments having been made by Republicans -- which, in my more cynical musings, has led me to wonder if maybe they ruled the way they did in order to purposely fan the flames of the culture war and thus give the repugs some great new ammunition: a fresh new wedge issue!

Am I just TOO suspicious?

sw