Ceasefire (on this point, at least)
We hereby declare a moratorium on gay-marriage pro- and opponents impugning each other about out-of-state aid -- financial, personnel, or otherwise.
Stand For Marriage Maine, the opposition group behind this fall's People's Veto of the gay-marriage law, sent out a press release today that reads, in part:
One of California's largest gay activist groups held a press conference on Wednesday, August 12, announcing they will be diverting resources to Maine to help to keep Maine's new anti-traditional marriage bill on the law books.
Equality California said at today's press conference their reverse California gold rush will include sending field operatives to Maine, and also, providing direct mail and email solicitations for contributions and volunteers.
A victory in Maine, said a spokesperson for Equality California, is just as important as California and would be a sign that the 'gay marriage tide is turning.'"
Folks, this is the nature of big political campaigns. Wonkish movers and shakers go from state to state, offering their expertise in what is a universally fraught, delicate battle. This isn't a local issue. It's a national concern. It's not surprising that Californians who support gay marriage want to send help or open their wallets for this cause -- especially given the defeat they faced in their own state. Nor is it shocking that national conservative organizations want to help stem the tide here in Maine. Both sides know that the impetus behind federal gay rights legislation is dependent on state decisions. So yes, both sides will take all the help they can get. It's a non-starter that doesn't even reach the level of inside-baseball interest. Moving on!
