Gay-marriage ban a no-win deal for Bush

[BR_Parkway]

http://www.philly.com/mld/inquirer/news/nation/14636649.htm?source=rss&channel=inquirer_nation

<snip>

What Bauer didn't mention is that the polls show far less support for amending the Constitution to ban same-sex marriage. And the subject doesn't seem to register on the intensity scale, either. The latest Fox News poll, released Friday, listed the 20 issues that Americans are most concerned about, and gay marriage didn't even make the list.

That reality is a big reason why the Senate vote next month is just a gesture to the religious right. Sixty-seven senators are needed to pass a constitutional amendment, and there's no way GOP leaders can goad even all their own senators to vote for it. (John McCain is against it.)

Hence, Bush's difficult position. He can steer clear of the fight, as he is doing now, and risk alienating religious conservatives who await their reward for services rendered. Or he can spend precious capital in a losing cause, and risk alienating moderates and independents.

GOP strategist Pascoe said that, in the end, Bush has to ensure that the antigay-marriage forces show up on Election Day. After all, he said, citing the sour mood within Republican ranks, "our side is going to need every vote it can get."

[terrya]

1. Terrific

It's essential that Bush get those phobes out to vote in November. And yet...he risks sinking even further in the polls if he continues to pursue this stupid piece of shit.

Win-win for us.

[rodeodance]

2. the purpose is to get congresscritters votes on record (to be used

against them). they will be forced to vote-yes or no.

[TechBear_Seattle]

3. Problem is, equal marriage is a non-issue with Dems as well

The sentiment is quite clearly, "Shut up and take what crumbs we deign to give you. Civil rights? You don't need no steenking civil rights!"