Wisconsin Democrats praise gay marriage ruling



WISCONSIN DELLS (WITI/AP) — Wisconsin Democrats are praising a federal judge's decision to overturn the state's gay marriage ban.

With a crowd ready to warmly receive any message so long as it falls on the Democratic platform... On this day, same-sex marriage steals the day.

U.S. District Court Judge Barbara Crabb's ruling deems the state's 2006 ban on gay marriage unconstitutional.

"Instead of feeling the regret or shame about who they are and who they love they will wake up with a little more hope because our state now recognizes them as full and equal citizens let us never forget what happened today," said Mike Tate, state chair Democratic Party of Wisconsin.

Democratic gubernatorial candidate Mary Burke called the ruling a victory for fairness and equality.

Congressman Mark Pocan says the ruling will end to poor treatment of gay couples.

"There’s a bunch of people in the backrooms furiously rewriting their speeches right now this is something we were going to talk about and we’re going to talk about it in a celebratory manner now but we’re so very excited," said State Rep. Peter Barca.

Joy for the news was shared by the party's most powerful, and those more fringe.

"I’ve worked on this issue for many years my mother is gay so this is great news for all of us with gay you know family members," said State Rep. Brett Hulsey.

Some are also hoping the news will help turn the tide in the Democrats favor this election season.

"This really could be the turning point to turning Wisconsin around and electing Mary Burke governor, getting our state back on the right track, and that’s what we’re going to be talking about this weekend," said Barca.

Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett issued the following statement:

“All loving couples, committed to each other and family, should have the freedom to marry. Today’s decision by U.S. District Court Judge Barbara Crabb affirms that right.

“I encourage State Attorney General Von Hollen and Governor Walker to drop their opposition to marriage equity and recognize the rights of all Wisconsin couples to marry.”


Van Hollen said the ruling was a setback and he would appeal. Gov. Scott Walker hasn't issued a statement on the ruling.