As predicted, there have been some hostile responses to today’s US Supreme Court ruling striking down state bans on gay marriage. Many of those are coming from Republican presidential candidates, who argue that the ruling jeopardizes religious freedom and states rights.
Louisiana governor Bobby Jindal tweeted as much, and said in a statement: “The Supreme Court decision today conveniently and not surprisingly follows public opinion polls, and tramples on states’ rights that were once protected by the 10th Amendment of the Constitution.”
Former Florida governor Jeb Bush said he believes in “traditional” marriage and that the Supreme Court should have let the states make the decision. He also said, ”I also believe that we should love our neighbor and respect others, including those making lifetime commitments.”
Former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee used a visual aid to decry the ruling and accuse the Supreme Court of playing God, complementing a series of four irate tweets on the matter.
He demanded that Congress, rather than the Supreme Court, act on behalf of God.
Former Hewlett-Packard CEO Carly Fiorina said she supports equal benefits and rights, but not equal access to marriage.
Rick Perry said the role of the Supreme Court would be different if he were president: “Our founding fathers did not intend for the judicial branch to legislate from the bench, and as president, I would appoint strict Constitutional conservatives who will apply the law as written.”
Former Pennsylvania senator Rick Santorum, meanwhile, called on the masses to speak up.
Among the Republican presidential candidates who haven’t made statements yet today: Rand Paul, Ted Cruz
The Democratic hopefuls, meanwhile, have been busy rejoicing.
Democratic favorite Hillary Clinton is also celebrating effusively on Instagram.