Honestly, this was a non-issue for me. I didn't get my marriage license from the feds, I got it from the states. It is up to the states to sort this mess out.
I really honestly dont want the Feds involved in this issue. Glad it was debated, but it shouldnt be regulated by the Feds. The DOMA act is enough, it reaffirms that marriage is between a man and a woman.
As for the Gay Js, they should have voted. Now President Bush can bash both over the head for not at least voting on this proposal. He could say that they don't believe in voting for or against something that is controversial in an election year. Meanwhile, he can point to himself and say at least he took a stand, right or wrong. Edwards spoke but didnt even stick around to vote. what a loser...
It is a national issue.
the federal DOMA is gone in 2005, 6 votes on the SCOTUS to toss it (according to Robert Bork). once the case gets there, its bye-bye. this amendment is an attempt to get ahead of that inevitability.