WASHINGTON, D.C. May 16, 2008 – Today Congressman Ken Calvert (R-CA) denounced the decision by the California Supreme Court to legalize same-sex marriage.

"I do not think that an issue as important as gay marriage should be made by nine unelected judges," said Rep. Calvert. "I support the people’s right to define ‘marriage’ as only between a man and a woman through a constitutional amendment. I hope the court grants a stay of judgment until after November when the people of California will have an opportunity to vote for the constitutional amendment."

Congressman Calvert voted in favor of the Defense of Marriage Act (P.L. 104-199) which became law on September 21, 1996 and supported Proposition 22 in 2000 which declared that "Only marriage between a man and a woman is valid or recognized in California." The current proposition for the November general election is still in the qualifying process and has not been issued a Proposition number yet.

"I believe that we can practice tolerance while still holding true to cultural values that protect the institution of marriage as a union between only a man and a woman," stated Rep. Calvert. "I look forward to the November election when the people of California will make the ultimate decision about how the state treats marriage."

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