With allies like him, who needs enemies, really?

http://www.bigstory.ap.org/article/mcdaniel-supports-gay-marriage-will-defend-ban


"I'm going to zealously defend our constitution, but at the same time I think it's important to let people where I stand on the matter," McDaniel told the AP after his speech.

<snip>

McDaniel announced his support for gay marriage after criticizing U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder for telling his state counterparts in February they weren't obligated to defend laws in their states banning same-sex marriage if the laws discriminate in a way forbidden by the Constitution.

"I do not take orders from Eric Holder and I'm determined to live up to my obligation, and that includes with regard to our state's definition of marriage," McDaniel said.

<snip>

The head of the Human Rights Campaign, the largest U.S. lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender civil rights organization, praised McDaniel for his comments.

"Today Attorney General McDaniel adds his voice to an ever-growing chorus of Americans from across the country that are standing up for the right of all couples to marry_and there is no turning back that tide," HRC President Chad Griffin, an Arkansas native, said in a statement released by the group. "As a proud Arkansan, I know it's only a matter of time before committed and loving gay and lesbian couples in my home state get to enjoy all the rights and benefits that come with civil marriage."

Deeds, not words

Oregon Governor John Kitzhaber and Attorney General Ellen Rosenblum will not defend a ban on same-sex marriage.

"The constitution has been violated in our opinion by this state provision," Rosenblum said in a press conference after filing the state's response in a lawsuit filed by four same-sex couples.
http://www.wweek.com/portland/blog-31271-oregon_wont_defend_marriage_ban.html