[ex-snook]

"So much for 'states rights'. Many of the people who will support this bs amendment (which deprives the states of their right to define marriage themselves as they have done for 200+ years) "

States used to prohibit abortions too. If the SC did not legislate, this amendment would not be necessary. An amendment is the only way to restore Constitutional balance of powers.

[ChicagoGuy]

"An amendment is the only way to restore Constitutional balance of powers. " This amendment goes way beyond restoring any balance of powers. It takes the definition of marriage, which has always been in the hands of the states, and forever pulls it into the federal realm. It specifically says how marriage will be defined in all states, and it specifically says how all federal AND STATE laws will be interpreted. This is a huge encroachment on the rights of the states, and creates a tremendous imbalance in favor of the federal government over the states.

[Jeff Gordon]

An amendment is the only way to restore Constitutional balance of powers.

I see. The classic "two wrongs make a right" argument. This form of argument is right up there with "might makes right" and "he who has the gold rules."