Republicans Remain Fixated on OTHER People's Sex Lives

When it comes to same sex marriages, California apparently swings both ways.

Last year a court decision legalized such unions in the Golden State. Then in November, voters passed a measure known as Proposition 8 which defined marriage as being between a man and a woman. The measure was quickly challenged in the courts, and today the California supreme court handed down a ruling that satisfied no one: They upheld Proposition 8, but also said that the 18,000 same sex marriages performed since last year's will stand.

Considering that a number of states in New England have recently taken steps to legalize same sex marriages, California's move seems like a step back. It's also surprising, since the state has a longstanding reputation for being liberal. The issue is far from resolved, however, and the issue is likely to end up on the ballot again as early as next year.

Meanwhile, Republicans are attempting to overturn the DC city council's recent decision to recognize same sex marriages performed in other states. And why, you ask, would Congress meddle in a local city matter? Because they can.

Even though DC has theoretically had home rule since the mid '70s, Congress still retains the right to be the final authority on local matters.

Once again, this move demonstrates that the Republicans continue to be ruled by voices from the pulpits of America. The party pretends to be in favor of a reduced federal presence. Some Republicans have even gone as far as to bring up the subject of secession. It's all about states rights, they claim. The government under the Democrats is increasing its authority over the lives of Americans and meddling in things they have no business interfering in.

Noble words indeed. Yet the same people lamenting the growth of the government see no problem with dictating what consenting adults can and can't do in the supposed privacy of their bedrooms. Until Republican leaders regain control of their party from the religious nutjobs currently calling the shots, they are doomed to remain out of power.