CNN

I hope not! Who cares if two people love each other. It's nobody's business but their own.

I don't see much of a problem, because all three agree on this issue. They all chose the least offensive and controversial posistion.

I think the ultra right single issue voters have been fooled for the last time. There will be a few Pavlov's dogs but most folks seem to have smartened up.

Sure. The existing ban on gay marriage must of protected us from something worse than an aimless war, rising oil prices, or a housing crisis.

Like Bill Maher said: "If you think the Democrats are going to take your Bible away, you're an idiot. If you think they're going to take your gun away, you're an armed idiot. And if you think they're going to take your gun and give it to a gay illegal immigrant so he can shoot your God, you're Bill O'Reilly.

Ed Reed
Port Aransas, TX

Yes, but this time it is going to hurt the gop. A lot of young people have friends who are gay and are not going to turn their backs on them just because Bush and the hateful gop says so. The gay community will be a lot more together to fight the hate of the gop.

Oh, I hope not, but I think it probably will creep in. It's not that I don't think it's a legitimate issue to be discussed, but that it has been beaten to death – and we all could probably agree that the country is at an unfortunate stalemate over it. Though, to be fair, with the nation going the way it is, do we really have the time or resources to waste on telling two people in love that they can't get hitched? With any luck, broader economic and social issues will, and should, be the focus factors in this race.

Yes, definitely. Not a very large factor because gays and lesbians do not make up the majority of the people in the U.S. Campaigns have traditionally stuck to going after key, majority constituency.

Of course gay marriages will be a factor in the November election, thats how George Bush got re-elected in 2004.

Why would a moderately conservative republican dominated court in favor of gay marriages?

Answer: To bring out the conservative voters out in November to vote for John Mccain, its politics 101 Jack!

No. If same sex couples want to marry and have the same rights as cross gender couples, so be it. Besides, with the war in Iraq and the tanking economy and who knows what other messes Bush has gotten us into, why waste any more time denying folks equality?

The Republicans will use this issue to get their conservative base energized as they are still very wary of McCain. this may be their last gasp effort to try and mainatain any shot at the White House as well as local elections. Other wise, they are toast!!!

"How could we have done this to the "Grand Old Party" of Lincoln and why have we allowed this party to go to extinction along with the Whigs and Bull Moose parties? Boy, were we stupid!

It will be a very big deal with the media so it's hard to say Jack. I guess it depends on how many people like you we have pushing the real issues, that really matter.

Republicans love the "wedge" issues, gay marriage being one, because it takes away from the real problems facing this country that they have only made worse. I sincerely hope the voters will think twice before they fall for the usual election year scare tactics from the right.

Jack – for the Presidential candidates, maybe or maybe not, since this is a State decision. In California, whether we support the legalization of gay marriages does not matter. We can think whatever we want to think about gay marriages, but our voice does matter.

Jack – the Presidential candidates may or may not talk of the support or non-support of gay marriages. Since this is a decision made by the State, there can be little influence in the Presidential election.
In California, we can think whatever we want to, but our voice does not matter.

Jack, the Republicans will try to make gay marriage a factor in the Presidential election. Since they are bereft of any fresh ideas and leadership, they will resort to wedge issues such as gay marriage. But that's not gonna work anymore because their policies have harmed society, much unlike how the the hard-working, law-abiding gay couples in my community actually make my neighborhood a better place to live.

If conservatives vote based on this one issue, they've got major problems. The United States is going down the whole and all they want to do is sip tea, metaphorically. There is at least 10 issues in this election which the American people need to consider. You cannot pick a president on any one issue, if you do, you have allowed the several 100 policies of that one person to be placed on the entire society. This is not a grocery store where you can pick what you want, this is a bulk store selling only two packages containing various products. You need to buy the whole concepts of that person, not any one issue.

I know its difficult for some people to comprehend, but you have had 8 years to think about it. So stop listening to the pundits, look at your values, the direction of the nations and make up your mind.

Hopefully they will pick Obama

Just maybe, but it will play a minor part. When it comes to the economy, and the Iraq War, rising health, food, insurance, housing, and energy cost the talk about gays will be a minute portion of the converesation.

Jack, No, I am against gay marriages, but that should be left up to each state.We have enough problems to work on that effect us all . More so than rather a man is living with a man, or a women living with a women. We all know that mans law does not matter any way , its still God's law. Man and woman equals marriage.

Connie from Logansport,IN

I think it will be for a lot of people. But not me. I could care less about body parts if two people love each other and want to get married and get the governmental benefits.

Of course Jack!

If there is one thing to get the republicans out to vote is
Gay Marriage!
It happened in 2004 and I'm sure there will be referandom's on the ballot's of alot of the swing states for just that reason.
I wounder how many gay republican's will come out and move to California?

Well, Jack, it may well be a factor in the election, but I can guarantee you it will not be a factor in married life in these United States. Although none of my wives have been male, I do appreciate the right to marry one of them if I so choose. I'm not sure just how that would affect Hagee et al but it seems that the California Supreme Court, at least, thinks it is not his bidnez, nor yours.

The narrow and closed minds in this country tend to assume a false, almost surreal, moral superiority based upon some quaint ideas of long dead popes, bishops, and preachers. Perhaps the outlawing of such attitudes should be a factor in the next and all elections, rather than a restriction of human rights.

We have so many problems with the direction this country has been going and many already touch indirectly on legalized gay marriage, which could include health care for families, housing crisis and what it's doing to families, and jobs that support families. So will it be a factor, indeed it should if we are talking about families. There should be no discrimination within our country.

No , the republicans may get a bump in the relgious right, but it will hurt them more with the general elector.

Yes.

It is just the right thing to excite the Republican base. Great, 4 more years of McBush!

No it will not matter in this election no matter how much the GOP wants it to be an issue. Americans are far to worried about how they are going to feed their families and put gas in their cars to go to work; than to spend energy listening to politicians battle over this issue. (Well at least i hope so!)

Jack, I'm a supporter of Gay Civil Unions. if you put an initative on the ballot in favor of those rights I'm going to vote for them. However, what the California supreme court did was show republicans and social conservatives exactly what they HATE about the judicial system- they took the will of the people and overturned it. That's not democracy. And if it turns out every conservative in the state to vote for a new initiative in November, we'll know exactly who to blame for McCain wining the state.

jack, I am a 48 year old black man and i would like to take you to california and married to you so i could get your wealth when you die, dont get me wrong between now and then ill be good to you and will make great love to you, you,ll like it,i am from hartford Ct

the Republicans will obviously try to make it a factor.

they have no economic or foreign policy positions that will attract independent or undecided voters so it's back to the old "God, guns and gays" bamboozle that's worked so well since 1980.

It will only matter when the canidates campaign in California because most other states will deal with this issue later. There are other issues to debate on then gay-marriages.

Will this hurt the election? I hope not. I really do not care who marries who. If you want to marry your dog that is your business. Hell, people leave millions of dollars for their pets. I do not understand why everyone has to make it there business to know who is married to who. If there is a person that makes another person very happy then why can't that person have that happiness and have the legal benefits that go with it? Do people not understand that being a homosexual is not contagious? They do not prey on young children either. I seriously think that most of our society believes this. Do you know that almost all of the pedifiles in our country and around the world are heterosexual. This is something that has been around since before biblical times and it will not go away. So get used to it people! And yes Jack, I am married to a wonderful MAN!

it shouldn't even be discussed. we have much bigger issues on the table than jane weds jane or bob weds bob. this country is in a lot of trouble if we're more concerned about gays than the economy, war, health care and many other serious problems we face.

This news only confirms my feelings of the last year that I don't think God is going to allow America a chance to vote in November as you well know Jack! Every one and every thing has rights now in America, especially queers and Polar Bears! Both indangered species!

Jack, no it won't. I think Americans have learned after 2004 that there are things more important than same-sex marriage. If they haven't learned, then all they have to do remember is to look at their bank account after going to the grocery store or the gas station.

YES! Remember what happened in 2004? The gay people pushed the issue and caused the Democrats to lose the presidency. For once, think of what is good for everyone and not just YOU! Let the issue rest until after the November election. PLEASE!!!!

Jack, no it won’t. I think Americans have learned after 2004 that there are things more important than same-sex marriage. If they haven’t learned, then all they have to do to remember is to look at their bank account after going to the grocery store or the gas station.

Only if Karl "Hey Sailor" Rove is involved somehow...

Jack,

It shouldn't. It's a state issue. California will probably end up with it on a ballot again and the people will vote again. Since all the candidates don't believe in a Constitutional amendment banning gay marriage, let California work it out.

I can't believe with American's struggling to purchase food for their familes and struggling at the gas pumps, we are worrying about gay marriage. Why is this even an issue in our society? Let gay people marry! Who cares? ... Here's a thought:
If gay marriage bothers you – Don't marry one!

If this were September, maybe. I certainly hope the GOP isn't planning to spend the next six months crying Gay Marriage. And as far as their slippery-slope argument that such an institution would lead to beastiality and other bizarre unions I offer this: Democrats can tell the difference between a person and an animal.

Republicans will make it so. What can they run on are you better off then you where eight years ago I don't think so.

It shouldn't be. With all the problems the world is facing this should be a non-issue.

Jack, it shouldn't be a factor unless they want to over turn it..in that case they should "come out" and say it now not later. This is about right to be unhappy ane marry..or happy & marry.

No!! this is the last thing on the vast majority of Americans mind.
The economy; the Iraq war based on lies and deception and lack of medical coverage will be a factor in the presidential election

Jack
that is a constituancy that I hope neither campaign goes after.

Once again this will provide the Republican party fodder for their nasty campaign. Before it is over I believe that they will have us believe that only the gays support Obama because they all want to be married.

Yes.....

There's a presidential election??? When? Who's running?

If the California decision on gay marriage does become an issue in the November campaign i hope it is a positive one. I hope that Senator Obama, should he be the nominee as seems likely, embraces the decision should it arise, and show himself to be what he claims to be. He talks big and on this (as well as other issues) he should put his money where his mouth is. I fear he won't because of the influence Rev. Wright has had in his life, and he too may succumb to political pressure to be merely "Present" on the issue, as his record in Illinois shows on other issues. That would not be enough.

John Lucas
Victoria, BC
Canada

In a perfect world it should not be. However if all the crazies from the far right come out of their caves and start their rants it may persuade everyone else to finally realize that people are people and they should have the same rights as anyone else. The far-right crazies seem to be the most miserable married group in our country so why wouldn`t they want the same for all?

I don't think so. The total gay vote in America is estimated at 4 percent. I don't think it will have much impact on a presidential election. Well, unless the candidate is gay. Then that would play real big in the election. But that is a few more presidential elections down the road.

Why should it? This is just another of those 13 cent issues that takes everyone's minds off the real issues we have staring us in the face. We must stay focused on righting this ship or she's heading directly to the bottom. Focus people Focus!!

Who really cares?

I think the evangelicals will try to make it an issue. But to most Americans it's too far under the radar to make a difference.

Th Republicans will, certainly, try to make it a factor.

If all the candidates hold the same position, how could it become an issue? Besides people are much more concerned about the economy and foreign policy for gay marraige to make any real impact.

I'm sure the GOP will try to use it as a divisive issue... as they did for Bush's second term campaign.

I'm not sure it'll work this time, with Obama's theme of change.

Also I suspect, folks won't care as much about stopping a loving couple from being able to wed, as much as their lost jobs, unaffordable gas, and their son's being shipped off for a fifth term in McCain's Iraq.

Just a hunch.

fool me once, shame on me. fool me twice, shame on you.

I'm more concerned about my son dying in Iraq, my home being foreclosed, not being able to afford gas, food, or health insurance, then any other issues. Who my neighbor chooses to marry is really irrelevant to me. I hope this doesn't turn into another distraction via wedge issues election, because we really can't afford to do that any more.

Why should it be Jack? We have too many other crises and concerns in this country to get fired up over this.

Let's worry about these issues at Election Time:

The Economy, The War in Iraq, and Dependence On Foreign Oil!!!!

I pray people in this country won't be distracted by Gay Marriage – it's a red herring the Republicans might use to get the evangelical base fired up.

John A. – Easton, PA

I hope that by now most people are tired of the GOP scare machine. My vote will not be affected in the least by what California does or doesn't do.

No comment

Should gay marriage be a major issue in the upcoming presidential election? No. But it should not be placed on a back burner just because there so many other issues.

Gay marriage is important because it is an equal rights issue. Marriage is a basic civil right and it was not all that long ago that interracial couples were not allowed to marry. At that time, in some places, it was seen as an abomination and an affront to God to be an interracial couple. What is the difference between that and a same-sex couple? Gay marriage can't be too large an abomination in the eyes of God – after all, I haven't noticed Massachusetts falling into the Atlantic Ocean since their laws changed.

I, for one, do not see what the threat is to marriage and family if same sex couples are allowed to legally marry. It seems to me that the real threats to marriage and families are the people who abuse and neglect their spouses and children, who teach their children to hate, who demonstrate a disregard for everyone but themselves, who do not teach their children that violence is not an option. Perhaps if they worked on building and enriching their own relationships and families they would have less time to worry about mine.

I don't think so, not with the current state of the economy, the war in Irag and all the other domestic and world problems. The only way it becomes important is if someone can find a WAY TO LINK IT TO THE PRICE OF GAS. Wait Reverand Hagee is working on that.

I hope America is better able in 2008 to prioritize the issues that actually concern EVERYONE. This might actually be a blessing in disguise, because as more gay couples start registering, more money will be poured into our flailing economy for ceremonies, honeymoons, gifts, etc. At least corporate America should be happy.

Lisa
San Diego, CA.

Well Jack, it shouldn't be, but if Republicans can make it a factor, then it will be! It is amazing how a party that says they are for less government always wants to hop in on these "social issues". Shouldn't less government mean less government.

yes,because i wasn't aware mccain had a boyfriend?

Yes Jack, gay marriage will be a huge factor in the upcoming Presidential election...in the number of absentee ballots cast. Come November, while the rest of us are freezing our tails off, thousands of gay newlyweds will be watching the election results from the comfort of their honeymoon suites on some sunny tropical island.

A comment above by a fella named Kendall nailed it and I hope it is read on the show. If the GOP tries this same slop again it could well be the last nail in their coffin.

Wendy
Peachtree City, GA

It definitely should not be. Who someone loves and wishes to marry should not be decided by our government. If it doesn't hurt you why mess with it. We have far too many other issues to deal with that are more important to the citizens of this country.

why?is bush gay?

Everyone has their own preference, but I believe the bible which this country was founded upon. Marriage is between one man and one woman.

I think that a lot of these people need to read the word (Bible) because it appears that they do not know what happen at Sodom and Gormor. This is very unhealthy for the World. That is why we are experiencing what we are going thur now, all over the World. Pull your heads out of the Sand and smell the roses. This is very unnatural. He is coming back to make it right again.

Gay marrage has no place in a presidential race. What two people do with their love life is their business not mine, yours or others.Those that are complaining need to concentrate on their own marriages or relationships and make sure they are all they can be to each other as to keep the divorce rate down and the "madam list" out of business.. Discuss the issues of gas prices, food prices , home ownership etc. and leave those who choose love one another alone.

Jack, it will only be an issue when the “straight-talk express” makes yet another u-turn and reverses it position on gay marriage in order to cull favor with the stubborn conservative base.

the hair-pin turns in McCain’s positions are more hair-raising than a rollercoaster.

Unfortunately there will always be a certain percentage of the voters who care about this and abortion more than any issues. I understand their concern and even sympathize with them but, let's just hope that this time they look past the issues that divide us and vote on the ones that unite us all like war and the economy.

John McCain needed an issue to fire up the evangelicals, this should do it. Bush used this issue to win twice, California may have just sealed the deal for McCain.

Jack,
I think it should be a Huge issue. There is more to it than just who is marrying who. It is a civil rights issue. Any US citizen should have the same rights and responsibilities as any other US citizen. Granted the economy and the war are important, but so is our constitution and bill of rights.
thanks,
Bradley
Saint Joseph, MO

Legislating morality is the dumbest thing any politician can engage in. Unfortunately its another one of those many things that is 80% emotion and 20% politics, and the usual result is the majority gets stuck with the whinings and bleeting of the minority. Its a rotten way to run a democracy.
This is not a ballot issue. Nor should it even be considered on a national basis except for what it is, a wedge issue. It's very strictly a state legislative issue. Nothing more. If both sides portray it that way, it will be a non-issue.

But they won't.

Unfortunately, gay marriage will not be a factor. The GOP learned that they were duped in the last presidential election cycle and they are beginning to wake up to the GOP schemes. It's a shame that it took four years and ignorant comments for the GOP to admit that Bush wasn't the shining star they expected!

The true question should be this, Can you argue against gay marriage without any reference to God, The Bible, or Religion of any type. If you are unable to make a convincing argument the First Amendment says it has no place in any level of Government

Jack, gay marriage will always be an issue as long as there are people who want the same rights as others. But with the weight of other issues that affect all Americans, such as health care and the economy, gay marriage will definitely fade into the background more so than it has in the past.

Only if McCain proposes marriage to Obama.

I hope the issue will be a part of the discussion in this year's presidential election. If it is, it will give yet another advantage to the Democrats, for with respect to this issue as with most others, the Republicans are hopelessly out of touch with Americans, especially younger ones and those who are well educated.

Jack,

Are you kidding me? The Republicans are devious, you really believe that it's a coincidence that, the Republican appointed judges will bring this issue to the fore front at this time? I believe in the American people, it's not going to work this time. Congratulations Jack, I only wish you didn't moderate out my comments every so often.

Victoria, BC

No. This is a very important election year and voters are concerned about real problems. It's about time that gay couples have their marriages recognized by the state.

By the way, Jack, I just saw you on CNN saying "gay marriage" like it's something gross or nasty. Perhaps it was unintentional, but it was definitely noticeable and kind of tacky.

the republicans will use the issue to distract from the real issues facing this country...in other words they do not have leg to stand on when it comes to the war and the economy, and we have not had any terrorist attack on the USA for 7 years, so they will have to come up with something and gay marriage will be it...it will be the way john mccain will get the attention of evangelical christians and of the extreme right.

Anyone who cares about rising gas prices, national security, home foreclosures, and all the other meaningful abominations in this current administration will give this issue as much merit as the person who wins "Dogcatcher" in their local district.

Ingrid C.
Champaign, IL

I think it will play a major role,why wouldn't be a factor ?! Is a sensitive and sketchy subject for both parties.

Jack, I hardly think whether or not homosexuals can get married can be even remotely as important as our extortionate gas prices, and our economic recession. If America cares more about gay marriage then the entire country going bankrupt, then I have lost all respect for today's society.

Gay marriage is a topic that has existed within our society for quite some time. There have always been gay individuals and the more we advance into the future the more open they have become. I think it is sad that a person is fine with them, but once they are informed on the fact that they are gay everything is out the window. Because our economuy is hurting so much, I can only pray that this is not going to be a major issue but as a homosexual male I also would like equality.
Always, Chris

I hope that the Republican's bring the issue out in full force. It will only continue to prove that they only bring it up as a wedge issue to get out the vote. Every year the national polls inch closer to acceptance of gay marriage and I think its because Americans see that the Republican's argument that "the sky is falling" just isn't ever going to happen. I look forward to marrying my partner of 10 years real soon!! Go California!

-Adam Campbell, San Francisco, CA

Jack,

Gas prices are on a record high, the value of the dollar is sinking, we’re fighting two wars, American are losing their homes and we are facing the greatest challenges of this generations. To even think that gay marriage should be a priority is what I think is wrong with this country. How does gays not getting married make my life better… Oh I have the answer: IT DOES NOT. Whether gays can get married or not, it is not an issue for me

I spent $300 on groceries last month, came back home and felt like there was nothing in the house to eat. That should be an issue in the presidential election. Gay marriage certainly has nothing to do with paying $60 every week to fill up my gas tank. It has nothing to do with the war in Iraq and should not be an issue in this presidential election. Lets just be true to ourselves and face the main issues.

"Eleonor" above...Comments like this make me more and more scared of right wing Evangelicals. This fanatacism is no different than what we see of religion in other countries at present.

Unless their is something that I do not know that gays are causing such as soaring gas prices, mortgage meltdown, a week dollar, and of course tornado's in the midwest. Then No it will have no affect in the election. If their are people out their that do think it is then please help pay my mortgage, fill up my gas tank, and help build me a shelter from tornado's.

You bet it will. In fact I think the mostly republican appointed supreme court cam out with the overturn now just to throw some red meat to conservatives. Sadly, with so many real issues to talk about, it's a presidential election year and time for the republicans to do the gay bash dance yet once again.

Not unless republicans are running

I personally believe that marriage should be defined as a union between one man and one woman. But I believe the bigger picture here is the California courts ignoring the vote of the people. We have issues go to vote for a reason. This country is supposed to be about the will of the people, not who has the better attorney!

No, since it is up to the state to legalize or not.

Congratulations, Jack. As far as the gay marriage issue; come on, Jack. I think we've seen the republicans try and use any and everything they can to gain some kind of leverage in this election. The notion of gay marriage would be right up their sad, pathetic little alley. God bless them anyway.

Well, Republicans can't win on issues relating to the Iraq War, the economy, gas prices, health care, or much anything else for that matter. So, as a cornered animal scrambling for an escape route, they bring up the pathetically irrelevant issue of gay marriage. And Michelle Obama should be proud of this?

Who cares? There are too many issues on the table than worrying about people of same sex coming together in what a lot of us consider a " unholy alliance." It's time to get with the real issues and drop trivialities. Congratulations on todays landmark Cafferty you are doing a fantastic job.

It will be an issue for voters because it is not just about gay marraige and the definition of marraige, it is also about the courts once again overturning the will of the people. The people of California voted overwhelmingly a few years back against gay marraige and once again the courts are trying to make the laws rather than enforce them.

This is a belated "Michelle" posting.

I just watched the Tennessee ad–Did you notice that they have blipped out the word "really" from her speech? What Michelle said was "this is the first time I feel REALLY proud . . . . ." That's quite a different statement from "I feel proud . . ." She should be really proud that her husband has created the fantastic following that he has. Many of us are equally really proud.

I have no problem with it – there are so many more pressing issues. I would be curious to hear Dick Cheney comment on it – if the Republicans are going to make it some kind of election issue. (his daughter)

Yes.. because people are stupid and will get up in arms about two men kissing, but over look the crimes of the Bush admin

YES....Now McCain can marry Mitt Romney

Married or unmarried, gay or straight we as americans need to come together and deal with the gov. on high gas prices, food prices before America as we know it will be no more.

S. Hall TX

Change is all you have left.

Were packing our bags, it's time to go.

You deserve a break today