Statement by Conservative Party Chairman Michael R. Long

FORT HAMILTON STATION, NY (05/29/2008)(readMedia)-- Yesterday, Governor David Paterson declared that New York State must recognize out-of-state gay marriage while the residents of New York State are denied the opportunity to be heard on this subject.

Judges are supposed to interpret the laws as written, Governors are supposed to administer the laws as written and the Legislature writes the laws and so far, they have been silent on this issue. Marriage in New York State is between a man and a woman. The California Judges overturned the will of the California people and Governor Paterson is apparently trying to do the same thing in New York.

Governor Paterson should not be declaring that gay marriage must be recognized in New York State unless the Legislature of New York States changes the definition of marriage in New York.

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