49.15%	Yes
50.3%	No

Comment: Everyone should have a right to do what makes them happy from Portland by Brian

Comment: Of course we should, anyone whom is against it is just anti gay or playing the my religion dosent allow it card. Its ashame that in the year 2009 that this issue even needs to be debated. from Springvale by Marcel

Comment: No, to same sex "marriage", but a "civil union" that allows the same legal rights, sure. but, please don't call it a "marriage". I think that is fair enough for all. from westbrook by matt

Comment: No way! What's next being able to marry your child? from Gorham by John

Comment: All are created equal - there should not be a difference who is involved - what goes on behind someone else's closed doors is NONE OF ANYONE'S BUSINESS!!!! from Bowdoin by Sherrie

Comment: of course from Raymond, ME by Tammy

Comment: Sure, why should'nt they be allowed to suffer like the rest of us. from lewiston by chris

Comment: Stop being immature people! by Me

Comment: I can't even believe we are still debating this issue. from Falmouth, ME by Peter

Comment: Every person is entitled to equal rights. from Standish by Kate

Comment: Perhaps civil unions but not marriages. I don't care for the gay lifestyle but would not hinder them either. However, marriage should be between a man and a woman only. from Portland by Sue

Comment: As a comedian once said..."Yes, they should be allowed to get married and be miserable...like the rest of us!" All kidding aside...I believe that same sex marriages should be legal. from Buxton, Maine by Laurie

Comment: NO! Marriage is a God-ordained institution for a man and woman only! It is not a man-made institution, and is not designed for those of the same sex. There are already man-made provisions in place for those of the same sex that want to be recognized as partners. Leave it alone already. by ~Maine Momma~

Comment: I believe this to be the last (hopefully) great civil rights battle. It is well past time for us to treat everyone as equals, and stop discrimination due to fear or religious beliefs. I want my three boys to finally grow up in a society that never knew discrimination of any kind. from Warren by Amanda

Comment: Gag me with a spoon! from Rumford by Laurie

Comment: Marriage is between a man and a woman PERIOD. Marriage was given to the human race by God as a sacred union between a man and a woman in order to love one another as God loves us and to procreate the world PERIOD. from Bethel, ME by NotConfusedAboutMyGender

Comment: No, what are we teaching our children? Marriage was always intended to be between an man and a woman. What ever happened to morals?? from Auburn by Bonnie

Comment: Yes, who are we to tell people what they can do with their own lives. Yes it says its against the bibles word, but how would you like to be told you cant be happy and marry the person you love because people cant keep their nose out of your business. I think it doesnt matter, as long as your happy you should have the right to be with who you love either with someone of same sex or opposite. from Gorham, Me by Brigitte

Comment: This is the only fair thing to do so that couples can receive benefits that are now only allowed to a married male and female. It would make life easier for all concerned should one of them should get sick or die and maybe leave survivors. from Sanford by Ruth

Comment: NO - marriage is and always will be defined as between one man and one woman. Our family structure is based on this union between one man and one woman. Trying to redefine marriage is wrong and will not make it right or normal. When the family breaks down, so does the society. from Augusta Maine by Sue

Comment: No, rights should be provided under 'civil unions' but 'Marriage' is meant to be between a man and a woman. One nation, under God and we continue to make a mockery of God and the beliefs this country was founded on. from Windham by Mr. Black

Comment: in the eyes of God..marriage should be between a man and a woman from Me by Pat

Comment: As one of the worst states in the country for providing an atmosphere conducive to attracting business(and jobs by inference), it would seem consistent that legalization of same sex marriage would be viewed as a possible solution for boosting the economy! Nothing in this State surprises me anymore. from Lovell, ME by Richard

Comment: I'm all for it. I don not believe that laws should descriminate against people or promote hatred and inequality. from South Portland, ME by Micah

Comment: IMPEACH HIM from PORTLAND by SCOT

Comment: it is working out well in the state of massachusetts and there is no reason to deny the same rights to homosexuals couple lets get on with more important issues and and rid ourselves of more discrimitory laws from thomaston maine by william

Comment: Yes we should, and those people who think we are teaching our children the wrong things should maybe ask their children what they think. I bet they would be surprised at the answer. Our children are much more forgiving about it than most adults. from S. Berwick by Cathy

Comment: To each is own ~ no one else should not be making that decision for people-its none of anyones business!! from Norway, ME by Kathy

Comment: Marriage is not meant for two dudes. That is sick. from Freeport by John

Comment: are you kidding me, I lived in Palm Springs Ca. need I say more!! by Joe

Comment: Who really cares???? from OOB, ME by Jenn

Comment: No way! by Chad

Comment: The United States and Maine as an individual government has taken a great step in the world by electing its first black president. Now its time to make history again and have Maine accept same sex marriage. Everyone no matter race, creed, color, etc should be discriminated against. Its time to change the wording of the Constitution of the united States and make it say that all humans are created equal and deservant of the same freedoms and choices as the next person. from Gorham, Maine by Shonn

Comment: Absolutely! It annoys me when people say it degrades the sanctity of marriage. So what they are saying is that if same sex marriage is allowed then their marriage doesn't mean anything. It's crappy reasoning! from Limerick by Stacy

Comment: I dont think they should at all. If girls did not have a husben then there would not be any kids. its not right at all. from ME by Sophie

Comment: There was a time where homosexuality was considered a psychological illness and not normal behavior.But to pass a law allowing same sex marriages infringes on my religious rights when the Bible clearly calls it sin. The Church needs to love all sinners, but should not be forced to give validity to their life style. Where here to set sinners free, not to applaud sinful behavior. from Biddeford by Rev.Brian

Comment: One man one woman, that's the way it should be. from Livermore Falls, by Thayne & Barb

Comment: Marriage is between a man and a women. Period !! Equal rights through civil unions are fine, but marriage is a sacred union that has always been as it is now, and should always remain that way. from Harrison by Cliff

Comment: I am pretty sure that religion is supposed to be seperate from government. So who are we to decide who can fall in love with who and even stand in their way of showing their committment to each other by marriage. We have bigger problems in this state than to stand in the way of people who love each other making the decision to get married. My feelings are let them be because it seems like everyday there is some group trying to take away another freedom. I thought we were the land of the free. Let's at least keep the freedom of who we can love and marry our own decision. from Norway, Maine by Ruth

Comment: No,I believe marriage is to be held sacred between a man and a woman only. from Fryeburg ME by Amy

Comment: Wheather your male, female, or same sex. Everyone should be treated equel. I have alot of friends that are same sex and there happy as any other couples. I think it should be passed. from Biddeford by Carol

Comment: DAMN STRAIGHT! as long as a person is committed to ONLY one other person for better or for worse, i dont think its any of our business to judge them...why not judge the people who have multiple failed marriages and muliple children involved yet still keep getting married. tell me whats wrong with that picture? our society needs to take the heads out of their rear ends and get with times from lewiston maine by erica

Comment: i do not see anything wrong with same sex marriage they have a right to do want thay want to do. from portland, maine

Comment: People should be able to marry who ever they want without others telling them they can't from hebron maine by jerry

Comment: But it should include all the same benefits as hetro marriage from Shapleigh by Linda

Comment: And Michael Heath should get over it, he's the selfish one from Lewiston, ME by Amy

Comment: Yes it's about time that Maine comes to terms with the idea that times are changing and the old ideals of the state are no longer what the people of Maine are thinking, we need to let everyone have the right of marriage!!! from Windham by Dave

Comment: How rediculous that this is still an issue. Our President is African American, we carry phones in our pockets, and I'm voting online. Get with the program - the time has come! from So Portland by Julie

Comment: it's not right. !! from wells by wayne

Comment: As a gay man in Maine, I believe my partner and I should be afforded the same legal rights as anybody else. Stop treating us gay people as second rate citizens.... from Rockland by John

Comment: i think it is ok because u should be able to like how u want to and it is a free county and do what u want to do from MAine by jennie

Comment: I am for civil unions but changing the institution of marriage is just out of the question. Why do we have to change an age-old tradition just to appease a small number of people? from Norway by Jean

Comment: I don't think this would be a very good tourist attraction! Want more dollars in the government budget; consolidate the congress to less senators and legislators. from Naples, ME by Ejay

Comment: HELL NO! from maine by shelley

Comment: Maine should not pass the law because marriage is between a man and a woman not two of the same gender. It even says that in the bible. from Topsham by Emily

Comment: The people of Maine already have overwhelmingly voted no on this issue in a bond in a recent year, date unknown. Resoundingly NO from Gray/ME by Abi

Comment: Traditional marriage has existed for thousands of years. It is truly the Cornerstone of our society. www.mainemarriage.net/ from Lisbon Falls by Jason

Comment: Equal rights aren't special, they're constitutional. The arguments against same sex marriage are religious. We have separation of church and state, don't we? If you're religious and gay, then don't marry, but don't tell others what they can and can't do. from Brunswick, ME by Richard

Comment: I don't think Maine should allow this. I mean, its just not right. They can marry somewheres else. from wiscasset, Maine by Scott

Comment: We are talking about two humans beings that love each other....with all the hate in the world, why are we trying to stop love from saco maine by Julie

Comment: absolutely not. according to the Bible, marriage is between one man and one woman. from south portland by sharon

Comment: Definately NO! God instituted marriage as the union of one man & one woman. Who are we to change what God has established? from New Gloucester,ME by Brian

Comment: using the word marriage no , they can pick thier own word, or title.the word marriage is for wich is was written. from buxton by Linda

Comment: I think that it should be aloud because if a man and a woman can get married as many times as they would like then why can gays/lesbians/bi-sexuals have one? from West Bath, Maine by Kat

Comment: Why not? They should have the same property and inheritance rights as heterosexuals. They are born with their gender identification, it's not a choice. from Naples,ME by Stephen

Comment: Please no .it's immoral. It's a union between a man and women. Not the same sex. They have a civil union that is recognized by the state. by Joe

Comment: I believe the Bible to be God's Word which clearly states that marriage is to be between a man and a women (partly to procreate). God told us to be fruitful and multiply. It also clearly speaks about homosexuality being immoral. Those are my views according to what I understand about the Bible. from South Portland by Janet

Comment: 1 CAN'T BELIEVE WERE STILL HAVING THIS CONVERSATION IN 2009!!!WHAT HAPPENED TO ALL ARE CREATED EQUAL!! from south portland, maine by chuck

Comment: In our society, all people should have the right to marry the person they love. from Sanford Maine by Ms

Comment: absolutely! from Gardiner, Maine by Cheryl

Comment: Our culture needs to keep some of its underpinnings intact. We will cross a dangerous line if we change the definition of marriage from winthrop by mike

Comment: Homosexuality is a disgusting sin in eyes of God the Creator. Therefore it should be outlawed throughout our state, nation, and the world. from Orrington by Michael

Comment: I thought this was suppose to be the land of the free?? Everyone should have the right to choose the one they want to marry whether it be same sex or opposite sex. Maybe if those who opposed same sex marriage worried more important things like the economy, this country would be a better place. from Sebago by Skip

Comment: Heck yes it should be legalized! Who are we to say who people love? It's their choice to love someone as the same sex as them just like we chose to love someone of the opposite sex. from ME by Natalie

Comment: Leviticus 18:22 (NIV) 22 " 'Do not lie with a man as one lies with a woman; that is detestable." from ME by Shan

Comment: No, marriage is a sacred committment between a man and a woman. from cushing,me by michelle

Comment: Absolutely, the US Supreme Court declared marriage a fundamental right in Loving v. Virginia. Fundamental rights should not be denied based on race, color, gender or sexuality. It's not for us to be the moral compass for the entire state. from Windham by Velma

Comment: NO all liberals want to change existing laws, traditions etc. for example (holiday tree)get your own and leave ours alone.all you do is preach tolerance but you are the least tolerant. if anyone disagrees we are homophobes, hate mongers,ignorant etc from windham by chuck

Comment: Of course but I think legalized prostitution and marijuana would bring in more business than gay marriage. Why hold back? from Augusta by Ann

Comment: Absolutely. "Marriage" is a religious institution between two adults. I don't care what it's called between two adults of the same gender but their legal union should be afforded ALL the legal rights and responsibilities of a traditional marriage. End the discrimination. from Gorham, ME by Nate

Comment: Times change, shame on all of you who cannot accept that we are not all the same. Gay marriage should be accepted! from Portland by Becky

Comment: If economics is the justification for legalizing "same-sex" "marriage", why not go all the way and legalize prostitution? from Round Pond by Phil

Comment: Same sex couples are capable of making the same commitment to each other as are heterosexual couples and they must be alloted all the respect and legal rights alloted to others. from Falmouth by dorothy

Comment: Definitely. It is a matter of equal rights from a civil perspective. Let's leave religion out of it. from Portland by Gloria

Comment: No, marriage is between a man and a woman. Kind of interesting, when we were voting on the civil union(Question 1) a couple years ago we were told by these same people it was not a stepping stone to pushing for marriage recognition. But now you find out they were dishonest and this was their plan all along. from scarborough by anthony

Comment: No way................ from Biddeford, Me. 04005 by Dot

Comment: Absolutely not. If they want some kind of civil union, fine. But leave the institution of marriage alone! from Monmouth by John

Comment: If they legalized prostitution it would boost the Maine economy also, but that doesn't make it right. from Kennebunkport

Comment: There are oh so many reasons why I am opposed to same-sex marriage. Aside from the fact that I believe it is immoral, I think the most important reason I am opposed is because I strongly believe that same-sex marriage is bad for the family structure. from Bowdoin by Callie

Comment: So goes "Rome" so goes Maine? Has the pendulum swung so far that we have lost such sense of what's right? from Richmond by Barbara

Comment: NO! NO! NO! Morals and values are in danger of becoming extinct if this law passes. Morals and values have declined ever since the gays and lesbians have come out of the closet. from Lewiston, Maine by Cindy

Comment: Homosexual sex is a sin. Sin is bad for us and our culture. Why would I want a law protecting sin? from Manchester, Maine by Sue

Comment: Yes, this is 2009, come on people … It’s wrong and immoral to disallow people who love each other to marry. from Bath, ME

Comment: Marriage is between a man and a woman and to be engaging in such acts is unbiblical and should not be sanctioned or protected by the state or country. If they want to be a same sex couple, that is their right, but to get the rights and benefits of marriage is NOT right! by Jen

Comment: I believe it total and complete gay rights. The declaration of Independence says that "...all men are created equal." So why are some of my friends, and relatives prevented from equal rights to: housing marriage inheritance employment religious worship insurance coverage adoption and on, and on? from Lewiston by Dean

Comment: Marriage is, has always been, and should always be the union of a man and a woman. from Topsham/Maine by Mitchell

Comment: WHY IS IT THAT CATHOLIC'S HAVE TWO SETS OF STANDARDS. THEY HIDE THE FACT THAT PRIEST MOLESTED BOY'S. YET THEY DO NOT WANT SAME SEX MARRIAGES.CAN ANYONE ANSWER THAT ONE? from BIDDEFORD by RICKY

Comment: The strength of our nation & our society has always been the traditional family unit and the moral values of the Bible - upon which our nation was founded. When a people leaves their moral & spiritual traditional values, they invite a decline into chaos where everybody does what is right in their own eyes & freedom, as we know it disappears. from Mechanic Falls, ME by Charles

Comment: Why should two people who are in love be denied being able to join in marriage just because some people are stuck in the dark ages with old fashioned ideas and still remain prejudiced? They shouldn't. They should have the same rights as everyone else. They are just as human as us. from Norway/ME by Kim

Comment: Perhaps it's time to start passing out copies of the Bible. Centuries have dictated life by "the Good Book." Sorry, can't seem to find any language in It that condones or promotes same sex marriages. from Mexico, ME by Anne

Comment: There should be NO LAW AGAINST same sex marriage because the State has no right to be involved in a CHURCH ISSUE. If the chuch has no problem with same sex marriage then the State should not be able to influence the issue one way or the other. It is not up to the State to dictate who can marry who. Everyone says God did not intend for people of the same sex to be married, well I say lets ask him again for his up dated opinon afterall we have all had a change of mind at one time or another and look who created us. Get The State out of this matter and let the churches take care of it. from Raymond, Me by Ken

Comment: Yes. Anything less would be discrimination. It would be nice to think that Maine would join all the other New England states as well as all of Canada. from Harpswell by Rose

Comment: Equal benefits should be allowed, maybe via "Civil Unions", but the word "marriage" is defined as man & woman. from Sanford, ME by Bob

Comment: no.goes against the name of god. civil unions yes, but having two of the same sex marry is just wrong by nike

Comment: Keep the church out of this issue. Gay marriage will have no effect whatsoever on straight marriage. from Waldoboro,Maine by Paul

Comment: everyone was and is to be treated equal. i don't see why they shouldn't allow to be happy &/or misrable like all other straight couples. they love their partner like any straight partner loves each other. from windham by amanda

Comment: I cant wait for the day that it is legal from Portland, Maine by Todd

Comment: I can not understand why anyone in 2009 thinks one group of people should be able to vote on the rights of another group. from Gorham, Maine by Rick

Comment: Marriage is between and Man and a Women/ from Portland by Erin

Comment: If children are involed who are they going to call mommy or daddy,that would look cute,God made adamd&Eve not Adam &Steve i"m very much against this so call law. from Biddeford, Maine by Jim

Comment: Marriage is a religious practice right & covent between a man woman & GOD .Not a manmade thing that is for all no matter what your definition of marriage is .Its not a civil right its religious practice/right. All religions Condemn homosexuelality whether Christian,Budist,Muslim from mcfalls,maine by paula

Comment: Nooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo way! The BIBLE says, ADAM AND EVE, not ADAM AND STEVE... We DEFINITELY do not need GAY PEOPLE making a pilgrimage to this taxing the state on our health care system, and well fair system. Having ONE of them who does work and the other stays at home while they are more then capable of getting out there and being able to work. This is MY OPINION... from Auburn, Me... by Warren

Comment: marriage should be for a amn and a woman only.unions can be for everyone else. from sabattus,maine by nancy

Comment: Was same sex marriage allowed 20 to 30 years ago? No. And because children are born between man & woman, then shouldn't marriage stay that way. Of the great confusion that that would bring to the little ones... from Lewiston, ME by J.

Comment: Same sex couples already have all the privileges legally anyway. Why mess any more with what God established? Leave it as it is. from Nobleboro, ME by J

Comment: when god created the earth it was in the vision that man and women would unite for there life time. by Rachel

Comment: Absolutely NOT! NEVER! I think that sex between people of the same gender is deviant behavior. I do feel that people have a right to be with someone of the same sex if they so desire, however I do not think it should EVER be on display for our children to witness. To see two men embracing and kissing in public is absolutely vile and should NOT be condoned in our society. from Westbrook, ME by Wally

Comment: That is so stupid! God created a man for a woman and vice versa. No same sex marriage! from Maine by Sarah

Comment: Homosexual relations are wrong and traditional family structure has proven, on average, to lead to better quality of life. from MDI by Mike

Comment: Haven't we voted on this many times before? from Maine by Doris

Comment: Absolutly NOT! Homosexuality is wrong and sinful and we wonder why our world is so wrong. If you want to be gay go back in the closet and stop setting a bad example for the rest of us whose children are easily swayed. Luckily for my four I do not teach them hatred for gay people but I do teach them whats right. Homosexuality has been around since our near begginings in the bible, last time I checked God did not smile upon this act or the country that condones it. But hey don't worry in the end, you'll have your reward, so have fun in this life! by Rick

Comment: This is clearly against God's Word (the Bible) and His Will. from Damariscotta by Richard

Comment: NO, definately not and they definately should not be able to adopt children that will grow up asking where mom or dad is. We have enough of that already. MORE CONFUSED CHILDREN !! from Sabattus, ME by Stephen

Comment: Yes, I support equal rights for everyone! A ban on gay marriage or a law allowing civil unions instead of marriage is discrimination. Separate is not equal. I continue to hear the same "sanctity of marriage" argument from opponents. It's ridiculous! You could easily use the same argument to ban divorce, infidelity, having a child out of wedlock, etc....The opponents make exceptions for themselves and don't follow their own moral and religious rules but continue to preach these rules to everyone else. By supporting equal rights for everyone you protect your own rights. from Sanford, ME by Malinda

Comment: It would be against what the Bible says a marriage is. It is between one man and one woman. If we the US goes against God's laws HE will not bless this country. from Nobleboro, Maine by Marie

Comment: I believe the unity of marriage is God ordained act and if it is not between a man and a woman,then it is an abomination and therefore done irrelevantly. from Jonesport,Me. by Loren

Comment: THIS IS JUST NOT RIGHT. THIS SHOULD STAY WOMEN AND MEN ONLY. THE WAY GOD OUR LOVING FATHER WANTS IT. from CHINA by JOE

Comment: Same sex marriage legislation is not good for children. All studies show that children do best in a home with a mother and father who are married. Same sex marriage legislation has stripped parental rights in many schools in Massachusetts. The long term effects of same sex marriage legislation on children and their families has yet to be fully determined and therefore it is prudent to use wisdom....if in doubt...don't. Please read the following: http://www.marriagefactsmaine.org/mf_me/docs/policy_brief_manwomanmarriage.pdf from Topsham by Miriam

Comment: no,BUT it is the states job to protect the rights of ALL the people.the real question should be why churches are tax exempt,as they teach division of people based on thier beliefs. The state shouldn't recognize any marriages. seperation of church and state from Me. by don't get it

Comment: There's nothing good about same sex marriage. from Nobleboro, ME by David

Comment: Let's put it to the people and let them decide. It's interesting that any state that's had it on the ballot has turned it down. So, if Maine passes a law which allows same sex marriage, what happens to the priest of the church that doesn't believe in same sex marriages and refuses to perform such a ceremony. Is he now a criminal? from South Portland / ME by Jim

Comment: We need to maintain the integrity of the most basic unit and cornerstone of society--the family. Every time we have given in to minority initiatives, the results have been disastrous. This is not about hate but about preserving the morality of our families and our children's future. from Augusta by Kathy

Comment: A marriage should be between a man and a woman only. They should have the same laws but let them get there own name for their union. It's not a marriage. Wait, are you saying it's ok to have same sex marriage to help the economy but it's not ok to have a casino to help the economy???? Never mind right or wrong it's just what's convenient at the time? from dresden by laura

Comment: its just WRONG from w gardiner by C

Comment: Is there nothing sacred, or to be left for thos who are tired of "political correctness'" Equal rights. Calling it marriage is wrong. from Standish by Denise

Comment: Maine should not pass a law allowing same sex marriage. Maine should cherish the precious gift of a marriage between a man and a woman. from Whiting, Maine by Jessica

Comment: Marriage is a bond between a man and a women by Michael R.Pelletier

Comment: All children deserve a mother and a father. We cannot continue to raise our children to believe that same sex marriage is ok. It is an addiction like many other things in today's society. Things like pornography, shopping, drugs, alcohol, etc. It is not normal and it is not healthy. We are who we are, but we were not made to be homosexuals. It goes against the all plans God has intended. He did not send Adam to earth to multiply and replenish the earth with Adam. He sent a woman. Only a man and a woman together can multiply and replenish the earth in a marriage. That is the way life was intended. That is the way it works. from Scarborough/Maine by Kerry

Comment: can 2 men make a baby?????can 2 woman make a baby?????Look for all you lost souls out there,think about what your doing to generations,of faithful man and woman,who have a normal family.It makes my soul cry.Im going to have to tell my daughter who is 5 that men marry men,and woman marry woman.for the love of GOD get a grip.IM not perfect by no means but your barking up the wrong tree when it comes to same sex marriage.If you think that we the people need your money so you can go against GOD You keep your money and you better really think about what your going up against.GOD.1GOD 1 FAITH.I hate what your trying to do but through the love of my heavenly father who is JESUS CHRIST ALL mighty,I hate what your doing to this world but GOD loves your souls.all eyes to JESUS...there will be a day when you will have to answer to our father,are you really ready to go against GOD?HAVE YOU EVER READ THE HOLY BIBLE???????? WELL LET ME JUST SAY THIS TO YOU ALL OUT THERE THAT YOU ARE SOOOOOOOOOOO WRONG.PRAISE GOD THAT IM NOT WALKING IN YOUR SHOES.I DONT CARE WHAT RELIGION YOU ARE ITS WRONG.READ ABOUT HELL REALLY I DARE YOU TO READ GODS WORDS AND LOOK IT UP AND SEE ABOUT SAME SEX MARRIAGE.BECAUSE ITS NOT AND I REPEAT ITS NOT IN THERE.IM TALKING ABOUT THE HOLY BIBLE.YOUR TAKING GOD OUT OF SCHOOLS OUT OF MONEY OUT OF MARRIAGE...GOD HELP YOU ALL.AND TO WGME YOU ASK FOR PEOPLE TO WRITE IN WELL IVE DONE IT MORE THEN TWICE AND YOU WONT READ MY E-MAIL BECAUSE I TALK ABOUT GOD SHAME ON YOU.SO NOW YOUR TRYING TO TAKE GOD OUT OF T.V.WAKE UP THE END IS NEAR I HAVE FAITH IN GOD THAT HE WILL NOT LET THIS HAPPEN.UNLESS THIS IS A PART OF THE BEGGING TO THE END.GOD BLESS THE PEOPLE WITH TRUE FAITH.......... from sabattus me by Lorie

Comment: This is not in the best interest of children. from manchester, me by Kim

Comment: Marriage should be between a man and a woman only. Its that simple. from Old Town, ME by Jessica

Comment: Same sex marriage is bad for children. Children have a right and a need to have both a father and a mother. Marriage is ordained of God as a union between a man and a woman, it is not within our ability to legislate a change to that eternal truth. Making something legal does not make it right. from Limington, ME by Joshua

Comment: This is an abomination. In addition to what this will do to the integrity of the family, has anyone considered how it will ravage inheritance law or genealogical records? Don't do this! from New Harbor Maine by Nancy

Comment: Back in 2003 when the space shuttle Columbia broke apart over Texas, killing all seven astronauts, about 16 minutes before it was to land. Nobody at the time knew what had caused this disaster. What the NASA investigators found was that a small suit-case size piece of foam, weighing only 2.7 lbs, had broken off from one of the fuel tanks at lift off. No one at the time thought that was significant, yet it had damaged the underside of the space shuttle, causing damage to the tiles and eventually causing a complete failure of the Columbia’s heat shield. A small thing led to such grave consequence. Yes, we need to be kind and understanding to others, but we must not ignore the data that shows how important the role of a mother and father are for children in the marriage relationship and in the role of society. We must preserve the traditional family and not redefine marriage to be just a relationship of affection between any two people. from Falmouth, ME by Jeff

Comment: the bible defines marriage as one man one woman. Period. End of story. from Saint albans, maine by Jon

Comment: I believe marriage is between one man and one woman, and there should be no laws that say otherwise. from 92 Summer St by Charles

Comment: The people have already voted on this issue and I am sick to death of politicians thinking they don't have to listen to what the people have said. from Limerick by Michele

Comment: Who cares? Let them marry. from Portland by Cole

Comment: If we pass laws against morality, it will be very bad for us and especially for our descendants. from Norway, Maine by Eris

Comment: Anyone considering that should be voted out of office. from Brunswick, ME by David

Comment: live and let live. the more happy families the better. half of the people who oppose this have been divorced and don't follow the good book themselves and are therefore hypocrites. from oxford county, MAINE by wendell

Comment: Please preserve God's covenant of marriage between 1 man and 1 woman. See Genesis 1 - God's word.. from Bowdoin by Kim

Comment: We are in a dangerous place if we allow "genderless" marriage in Maine. This bill has very negative ramifications that are not being addressed by the media i.e. parental rights will be trampled on in Maine as is happening in Massachusetts w/the David Parker case. from Gorham by Carolyn

Comment: Unions are fine, but marriage is for a man and a woman. from portland

Comment: Marriage is defined as a bond between a MAN and a WOMAN. from Cushing /ME by Virginia

Comment: Gays should not be pushing diversity on regular headeral sexural families that believe in one man and one women as in marriage. No wonder are youths are so screwed up with there morals. In the beginning it was Adam and Eve not Adam and Steve. This will not generate sixty million for our state. from Westbrook, Maine by Frank

Comment: Marriage was instituted by God, and very word "marriage" means one man and one woman. God had a reason for creating Adam and Eve... notice that He didn't create Adam and Dave? from Brewer by Brock

Comment: No one should be a seond class citizen--- all must have equal rights, live where you please, marry whom you please. Keep religion out of the whole thing. from naples by wilma

Comment: two plugs don't conduct electricity; only a plug and an outlet works. from Orono by Aaron

Comment: It's about time. We are all equal and should be treated as such. from Richmond by Nicole

Comment: One Man, One Woman, FOREVER!!! from Brunswick/ME by Scott

Comment: They can call it anything they want except marriage from Bath by Wayne

Comment: Marriage = One MAN + One Woman! Simple as that. from Augusta by Kaveh

Comment: equal rights not special rights is what we all deserve from Winslow, ME by Bruce

Comment: Equality for all. from Westbrook by J

Comment: Equality for all. This is America after all. from Portland, ME by man

Comment: YES WE CAN is what our President has told us. WE MUST HAVE EQUAL RIGHTS FOR ALL. Agree or disagree it is paramount that we all are created equal. SO YES WE ALL CAN! from Cape Neddick by Wayne

Comment: Yes! This is a simple matter of justice, equity, and civil rights from Edgecomb ME and Lancaster NH by Anne

Comment: absolutely, absolutely , absolutely from LEWISTON by PETER

Comment: Marriage should continue to be a union between a man and a woman. It's the way it was designed..our biology alone is proof that a man and a woman should be the only union. by Mike

Comment: All citizens should have the same rights. from Lisbon by Morgan

Comment: I believe that if 2 people love eachother, than they should have the right to be married, I think that it's sad that they need to use the fact that it would bring in more revenue in Maine for it to become apealing to Maine. from Gorham by Jen

Comment: of course they should pass it. i believe that people should be happy. and if thats what makes them happy they should be allowed to marry from NH by Bobby

Comment: same sex-different sex its all about LOVE. If someone wants to get married why not in Maine where we can recieve the money spent. If not us I am sure it will be in NH.as they seem to take all that we do not want! from Gray, Maine by Michael

Comment: Everyone should have equal rights, we should not deny a gay couple to marry. from Portland by C

Comment: Marriage is a commitment between two people. It promotes stability and willingness to work together to solve problems. It should be legally available to all. from Cape Elizabeth, ME by Sally

Comment: Why should any one have the right to tell someone who to love and spend their life with? from Augusta, ME by Cindy

Comment: We don't need to follow the "Jones" and pass a law like this. The Catholic Bible mentions Adam and Eve, NOT Adam and Steve. from Brunswick, ME by Matt

Comment: animals appear to be wiser than man from Alfred by Bea

Comment: Despite the opposition's goal of insisting a marriage is between a man and a woman, they seem to forget the US Constitution and Bill of Rights. It disgusts me hear the hatred these groups publicly speak. It's ironic how these Christian based groups who preach a life of acceptance and love are so powerfully hateful of others. Shame on them. from Cape Elizabeth by Christopher

Comment: Marriage should be blind of all things that make the world we live in today different. That includes race, gender, orientation, and so on. Marriage should not be defined by one man one woman. Same sex couples love no differently than heterosexual couples. from Lewiston, Me by Jaice

Comment: It is so very important to make marraige an opportunity and legal right for all adults. It is the right thing to do! from Portland Maine by Kathryn and Peter

Comment: i dont think its right and would never support such an issue. from momouth by joshua

Comment: If same-sex marriage is legalized, more children will be raised without a mother or a father. Social science research overwhelmingly proves that children do best on all measures of health and wellbeing when they are raised by their married biological parents. Man/woman marriage optimizes the chances of children being raised and cared for by both biological parents while same-sex marriages establish unions that will always deny the child the right to be raised by either a mother or a father. Research also shows that mothers and fathers, by nature of their genders, make unique contributions to the development of their children and that these contributions cannot be replaced by two “parents” of the same sex. If society sanctions marriages that make it impossible for children to be raised by either their mother or father, children suffer. Same-sex marriage will never bear the same fruit as man/woman marriage – no matter how many laws are passed because it is radically different. from Biddeford, ME by Kathy

Comment: It does not make a difference who you love, and it should not. There is no difference if you love a woman or a man, and it should not. I believe that the law should be passed because truth be told can you honestly tell me the difference between a heterosexual marriage, and a same sex marriage? My point, there is none. How would you feel? How would it feel to not be able to say "I do" to the love of your life? If because a law stopped you from growing old togeher? Again my point. from Windham/ Maine by Elaine

Comment: I hope you print a list of those at the Augusta meeting today - I will not be spending my hard earned money at these businesses, not that it will matter to them. Its discouraging to know that people will sacrifice values for the almighty dollar. from Waterville by Anthony

Comment: I think they should make up there own mind and leave them alone they don't bother us why should we bother them. And who is enybody to juge that's gods good will why not leet them mary they let us mary. Infack I think if some peaple would see them they would frown or beat them up or somthing. I could keep going but it's not worth it besides alote of peaple are not very mature. from Augusta by JF

Comment: It is time for all citizens to have equal rights under the law. That includes the right to enter into a marriage contract. Under the separation of church and state, religious dictates should no longer be allowed as a justification to relegate people in same-sex relationships to second-class citizenship status. from Windham by Betty

Comment: That is an abomination to God. He destroyed 2 cities because of it and told us to take note of that. The world is laughing at the United State of America; our morals are causing us to be an abomination to the world. Look around, look back and you decide. from Lyman/ME by Jane

Comment: What are we teaching our childern.... from Freeport by Mike

Comment: EVERYONE deserves equal rights! from Topsham by Aimee

Comment: Of course same sex marriage should be allowed in Maine and everywhere else in America. The year is 2009 and discriminating against anyones right to love another person is down right unacceptable. from Brunswick, Maine by Ryan

Comment: Everyone should be treated equally even if we don't believe it's the right thing to do from Fryeburg, ME by Felicia

Comment: Everyone needs to be happy in life - that is what life is all about. It's as simple as that! from Casco by Melissa

Comment: What happened to separation of church and state. If those citing religious want to dictate laws, maybe we should through out separation and start collecting taxes from the churches. from Westbrook by Peter

Comment: every one should do what they want by evie

Comment: Everyone deserves to be happy. They should have the same rights as everyone else. God did not mean for people to punish people for being gay, therefore, they should be allowed to get married. It does not effect my life either way, but they deserve that right. from portland, me by lynda

Comment: This is a no-brainer. Anything less is clearly discriminatory, and is based on fear and ignorance. Why shouldn't same-sex couples be given the same opportunity to join an institution which has proven to be an abysmal failure for heterosexuals? by James

Comment: I feel every state should pass the same sex marriage law. We're not hurting anyone, we just want the same privilages straight people have! from Portland by Merrell

Comment: it is not right i beleive one man one women children have a hard time with sex ed and they dont need to see something as disturbing as gay marriage from fairfield me by Fred

Comment: Absolutely yes. And anyone who is opposed to it has the option of NOT marrying someone of the same sex. I have a brother and close friends who are gay who have remarkable, happy long-term relationships; they are committed to their "spouses", and should be allowed to enjoy all the benefits of hetersexual people. from Augusta, Maine by Delaine

Comment: Marriage is the basis of a strong society. We grow stronger through inclusion. Narrow-mindedness and bigotry only weaken our culture. from Lyman by Delle

Comment: I think same sex marriage should be a law throughout the united states, but that might be pushing it too far, but one step at a time will do just fine. And yes Im gay from Epsom,NH by Brittani

Comment: Are we done with this yet? the only ones who want this marriage are the Gay community, the rest of us in the US do not want this, how hard is it to get this simple fact into ones head "Stop the insanity". Majority rules in Gods favor, marriage = 1 Man 1 Women!! from arundel by bob

Comment: I think so. I mean, I guess I understand people going off religious basis but...how much of religion has changed over the years? I just don't understand selectively abiding by some tenets and not others. We are all human, so why should they too not be entitled to the same rights as we are? They're not out to convert or force religious institutions to marry them in their churches. If people are going to be so tweaky about using the term "marriage", then call it civil union or something, but at least give them equal rights. from Augusta ME by Janika

Comment: It is a matter of fairness in the legal/secular world. I have told my family my partner and I (opposite sex) won't marry until *everyone* can marry. Religious ceremonies are a separate - religious - issue for each to decide for themselves. But we all need to be treated equally under the law. from Bath, Maine by Brenda

Comment: No NO NO from Scarborough by Bob

Comment: Our society has numerous laws which limit marriage. Minimum age, no incestual marriage, no polygamy ... the list goes on. Marriage should continue to have restrictions from PORTLAND, ME by Scott

Comment: I don't understand the argument that gay marriage somehow "threatens" heterosexual marriage. I'm pretty confident that no matter how many gay couples are married in Maine, I'll still be just as happily married to my husband. Besides, everyone should have the right to fight over the remote control! from Scarborough, ME by Sheryl

Comment: No, I do not think that Gays should be able to get married, I feel that the Civil Union covers all the needs, affording them all the rights and yet when people, including children, hear the word marriage it should mean between a Male and a Female. Marriage is a word that means a union between two people of the OPPOSITE. If they want, and they don't like the term "Civil Union" let them come up with another word, like "Lariage" to cover two people of the same sex! Keep the meaning of the word mariage as one man and one woman! from Central Maine by KeepItSimple

Comment: I truly believe that marriage should be for man & women. Same sex marriage sends the wrong message. from Winthrop by Carol

Comment: Marriage should be allowed for all equally. Marriage =love and devotion, til death do us part. 1 man, 1 woman??? Maybe only 1 chance should be given and 2nd marriages not recognized, blessed, or legal either. Call it what you want, marriage or union, but give us all the same benefits and perks. ...with liberty and justice for all. What ever happened to separation of church and state anyway? from Westbrook by Cindy

Comment: It is time for Maine to allow same sex marriage, and show everyone that our state holds equal rights to a high standard. from Portland, ME by Kevin

Comment: do you know that the wicked will not inheritthe Kingdom ogf god? Do not be deceived: Nether the sexually immoral nor idolaters nor mail prostitues nor homosexual offenders nor thieves nor the greety nor drunkards nor slanderers nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of god 1 Corinthians 6:9,10 from West paris by Seth

Comment: We shouldn't even be debating this. We should be looking at whether the institution of marriage itself is even relevant in modern times. When an institution has a failure rate (divorce) higher than 50%, one has to question if it hasn't outlived it's relevance. by Lew

Comment: I believe that all people are created equal. No matter of religion, nationality, or sexuality. Everyone deserves EQUAL treatment. from Biddeford by Chuck

Comment: We have already voted on this and been overruled by our governor. Whats next?! from Limington/ME by Jim

Comment: Same sex marriage should deffinately be allowed. Everyone should have the same rights no matter their sexual orientation. from Lewiston,ME by Korrin

Comment: Marriage is a sacred ordinance between a man and a woman. Allowing same sex marriage will be another step in eroding the family unit. from South Portland, ME by Sandie

Comment: They have every right to show that they love whom ever they are with!! What does it matter if they love someone of the same sex from Gorham, ME by Jessica

Comment: a man and woman period. from sanford by jay

Comment: Its time to allow anyone who wants to be married to be married to whomever they choose. Allowing two people of the same sex to marry does nothing to negate the sanctity of the institution. from Gorham by Kristin

Comment: If someone wants to commit themselves to ONE partner for the rest of their lives, why shouldn't they be able to? This hurts no one and benefits everybody. from West Bowdoin, ME by Pam

Comment: I think the law should be passed. It would bring money into our state. Gay and lesbian couples from other states would be attracted to get married in Maine. from Livermore Falls by Sean

Comment: Absolutely. Gay and lesbian men and women deserve the exact same rights as everyone else. There shouldn't be a debate. from Biddeford by Rachel

Comment: It really has no impact on me if this law is passed. What makes one person happy may make another unhappy - tend to your own life and make yourself happy, that's what I believe! from Union by Debbie

Comment: Absolutely, same sex couples should be allowed to be married. We need to live what our constitution says - if we believe all men (humans) are created equal - this should not even be a debate! from Kittery Point by Courtney

Comment: Marriage just isn't about a man a woman. Its about love. How come its fine when two women are together but when two men are its disgusting. Isn't that just like the pot calling the kettle black. They should have the same rights a 'straight' couples should. Its not fair at all to deny them their right to love. from Sanford by Sarah

Comment: whats the big deal! from south portland

Comment: Why Does it matter to everyone so much? Why does it offend you so badly? I'm heterosexual, and it does not matter to me. from portland maine by No

Comment: It's not natural. Although I believe people are born gay, that doesn't make it normal. I see it as a birth defect akin to Down's Syndrome. from Westbrook, Maine by Pete

Comment: Of course. Should media do "polls" that encourage the Michael Heath Network to stuff the ballot box with an hysterical effort? Absolutely Not. from Winslow by Charles

Comment: Why not? It's their choice! It doesn't effect anyone but the couple involved. from Augusta Maine by A

Comment: What's the big deal here? I am never surprised at the ignorance of people. from N Waterboro / ME by Jaso

Comment: it is absolutely no business of mine who marries who... what matters to me is that we all should have our rights upheld...all of us!! from ME by blu velvet

Comment: If two people are committed to each other, it doesn't matter who they are. Families come in all shapes & sizes. from Portland, ME by Kathie

Comment: Marriage has nothing to do with religion. There was marriage long before organized religion. Everyone deserves the right to be legally bound to the person they love. from Buxton by Neal

Comment: It's Adam & Eve, not Adam & Steve or Ada & Eve - lets not encourage it! from Lewiston by Dennis

Comment: I believe we have no rite Playing god & putting our noses behind others closed doors! yes to gay marrige! from portland me by roxann

Comment: I just don't think it's right. I think it will just open the door to other things in public places we just DON'T WANT TO SEE!!! from yarmouth, me. by charles

Comment: NO WE DON'T NEED THE CIRCUS THIS WILL CREATE AND THE STD'S CARRIED BY MANY AND IT WON'T DO MUCH FOR OUR ECONOMY. from wilton by william

Comment: Marriage, I think not. Marriage is a religious union. In fact people who don't get joined together through religious affiliation should not be called a marriage either. We should allow gays, lesbians and other non religious joinings the legal title of civil union from Bangor, Me by Jason

Comment: I heard the most stupid thing. Someone said that gays shouldn't be allowed to get married, because "then everyone else will become gay too". Yeah right. If you're worried about the population, spare me, i mean we're already overpopluating the world as it is. Anyway, everyone has the right to be happy. Anyway, from what i've seen, when gays get married, or even just together, they don't split up as much as straight couples. from Topsham, Maine by Alice

Comment: Marriage is a union between a MAN & WOMAN, NOT two people of the same sex. God made Adam & EVE & told them to go forth and multiply.Multiplication between two people of the same sex CANNOT take place in the usual, natural manner. from Wiscasset,Maine by Sandra

Comment: Of course, we should legalize gay unions! All of Maine's people deserve to be treated equally. Bigots who are against gay marriage use the same tired arguments that were once used to prevent mixed race unions. Clearly, the institution of marriage hasn't been jeopardized in Canada by including gay people. We in Maine need to get over our prejudicial attitudes and support gay couples who want to commit their lives to one another! Here's to LOVE! from Yarmouth by Evelyn

Comment: Marriage is between an man and a women. They have the same rights as married couples do so why do they need to be married? Now, if we do not pass this law are they all going to break up. I don't think so. So, let's just leave things the way it has been for a long, long time. It almost seems like marriage is becoming a thing of the past anyway. Everyone is just living together and buying homes and having children so what is the big deal. It is just a piece of paper. Love is the real reason you should be together not a piece of paper. from Buxton Maine by Lois

Comment: I think that it is wrong. It's like two lamps trying to plug into each other, it ain't gonna light up the bulb; It's against God, it's against nature, it's even against Man himself. What more is there to say? from Kittery/Maine by Scott

Comment: If two human beings are in love and wish to spend their lives together it should not matter if they are gay or straight, black or white, fat or thin,or republican or democrate.Anyone who is against gay marriage is simply full of hate. EQUAL HUMAN RIGHTS FOR ALL!!!! from Hope,Maine by Donnie

Comment: NO they can go to another State. The Tourism people should focus on bring jobs to the State not Gay Marriage. from Poland, ME by Mary

Comment: I believe that people on both sides would agree to it more if they called it civil unions with all the right as marriage. from Lewiston by Ben

Comment: Why not? If you don't like people like that then don't watch them or go to their weddings. I don't think this will pass because of the age of the majority of this states voters. The younger generations (meaning mine, yes I'm "young,") are more tolerant of gay, lesbian, and bisexual relations, and relationships. We have grown up in society with them, where they have been made normal. Until the voting population is dominated by us "younger" folk same sex marriages will never be legalized...It's a shame...who are we to tell someone who they can and can not love, and leave their belongings? from Standish by Stacy

Comment: Absolutely- YES. Someday this won't even be an issue. Two gay people getting married has NO effect on a heterosexual's marriage what-so-ever. There was also a time when people thought it was terrible to let women vote, and look at how ridiculous THAT theory looks now. Pass the law, the religious-right will get over it and find some other cause to make fools of themselves over. from Portland by Mark

Comment: I am 70 years old, and have lived hear all my life. This is my home. Don't bring GOD's Rath on it for money. from Buxton , Maine by Arthur

Comment: NO NO NO NO NO NO NO NO...ITS JUST WRONG from China ME by Peter

Comment: the only arguement against is based on religion. Since we are supposed to separate church and state, by law, then there is no reason not to allow it. If same sex couples marry, it affects me in absolutely no way. from Wilton, me by Dennis

Comment: I FEEL THE RELIGIOUS ORGANIZATIONS SHOULD STAY OUT OF IT UNTIL PEDO PRIESTS AND PEOPLE LIKE TED HAGGARD ARE REINED IN. THE CONSTITUTION INCLUDES SEPERATION OF CHURCH AND STATE AND THIS ISSUE TRULY SHEDS LIGHT ON WHY THAT SHOULD BE. from SPRINGVALE by TOM

Comment: No God did not make Adam & Steve He Made Adam & Eve I don't think it is right from Oxford Maine by Louis&Rita

Comment: no. from lewiston by bubba

Comment: I believe that marriage is 1 man and 1 woman for life. That is what God meant it to be. It is in the book of Genesis. I don't want anyone else trying to tell me that what I believe is false, and if Maine legalizes same-sex marriage, then the organizations pushing the agenda for it will have so much more leverage to stop churches from preaching the truth of the Bible. Common sense tells us what marriage is, and in favor of common sense, lets support families in Maine, not redefine or bash those who wish to keep the family institution sacred. from MAINE by Dan

Comment: I think the people of the state of Maine have already answered the special gay rights issues in many votes. from Monmou by Tom

Comment: I have no problem with same sex marriage. from Saco by Thad

Comment: It doesn't effect me one way or the other. I think it's great that people are capable of loving each other they want a legal commitment. from Windham, ME by Heather

Comment: call it anything else you want.But not a marriage from Spruce Head Me by Roger

Comment: How many times does this have to come up the people of Maine have already voted against same sex marriage,God did not create Adam and Bruce from whitefield by nancy

Comment: Against biblical teaching and will allow public schools to undermine parents who wish to teach traditional Christian values. from Durham, ME by Danette

Comment: It is not right to pass it because of the economy. Where are our morals? from Augusta/ Maine by Lewis

Comment: its time people grew up and let (to each his own)really mean something.its time for a law to allow,what everyone else has,with out a law. from lewiston,me by nora

Comment: Equal rights yes, just as a civil marriage is different it is still between man and woman. from Westbrook by Dee Dee

Comment: No! How many times do we have to revisit this issue?? Don't try to tell me I am denying someone their rights. They have NO right! If it is not a man & woman, they have no right to marriage. There are already "special" provisions that have been made to acknowledge civil unions. (And THAT is bad enough!)...But, as we see, it isn't enough for the gay & lesbians who want ALL of the privileges that are granted to married couples, and so, the gay & lesbian community is going to keep pestering us until they get their way. (Reminds me of my teenager..) My thought is this: I will continue to oppose this for as long as it is an issue. But, regardless of what happens with the law, gay and lesbian people will never have ALL of the privileges granted to married couples...they cant, it's not possible. God will NOT bless their union, and their relationships will continue to be cursed. It's not normal, it's not natural, and it's not God's intended design. AND..if you still dont like it, dont worry..you will stand before Him one day and you can take it up with Him directly. by ~Maine Momma~

Comment: Love is still love, no matter your gender. Everyone should have the right to marry whomever they wish. from east waterboro by Casie

Comment: Would anyone like to be told if the could, or could not marry someone that they love. To not allow same sex marriage is flat out discrimination. from Lewiston, ME by Rick

Comment: No they should not by kevin

Comment: I have been a faithful viewer for years however; you seem to be pushing, not reporting, gay marriage. If you continue this bias reporting, I'll have to find another morning news program. from Richmond by Kevin

Comment: hey should be afforded the same rights as everyone else. from Union, ME by Carleton

Comment: What is same sex marriage really going to hurt? I grew up in a church and understand the religious beliefs behind it; however, there are a lot worse things and people out there that we need to focus on other than people in love. by Anonymous

Comment: We the PEOPLE should NOT have a say when it comes to two people in love that want to get married. from Georgetown, Maine by Christy

Comment: Absolutely not! There will ever be same sex partnerships, and they may be called anything to signify the commitment of each person to the other and to their relationship. However, it is not a marriage! Marriage is between a man and a woman. It is the basis for a family, for children to be raised by a nuturing mother and a father who protects and provides. Men and women have inate qualities for the role they bear to raise children and children need a mother (woman) and a father (man)who are commited to each other and to the children. I know that the world today has distorted the definition of family...and look at the results! from Fryeburg, Maine by Judith

Comment: You should be with the one you love. from Kennebunk by Tammy

Comment: Marriage is a God-created union between a man and a woman. For two men or two women? You can call it marriage if you like, but it is NOT marriage. Same-sex marriage is mutually exclusive. from Auburn by Rebecca

Comment: WHO says marriage is one man & one woman. . .the bible? how about we separate church and state and start thinking about humanity. Marriage should be one human and one human. from cornish Me by Gordy

Comment: Absolutely! Two adults who are in love should be allowed to get married. It seems wrong that they can't yet. from Waterville, ME by Heidi

Comment: My Grandfather told me once that men shake hands from standish by mike

Comment: SHOW US IN THE BIBLE WHERE IT IS OK AND GOD SAYS OK AND I'LL BE OK....NEVER FOUND WHERE GOD SAID SAME SEX MARRIAGE IS OK.. from MANCHESTER, MAINE by LEEANNE

Comment: I think calling it a civil union would be more appropriate from Portland, ME by Andrea

Comment: This will send a wrong message to our children and destroy our integrety from Monmouth, ME. by Tony

Comment: I am tired of this crap being shoved down our throats and seeing it on tv. from buxton by gary

Comment: The traditional family is the fundamental unit of society. The ideal situation for a child to be reared is with a mother and a father. This needs to be the standard for raising our future generation. from Cumberland Foreside, ME by Callie

Comment: way not...marriage is great thing ..why do we have to label it...same sex,different sex...man/women...come folks are we still playing bully on the playground... from durham maine by Irish

Comment: Especially today,traditional family values are very important and should be upheld. Marriage between a man and woman is what true family values are all about. from Bath, ME by Patti

Comment: Life is to short, get over your hangups. Live and let live. Why should someone else's happiness upset you so much. from So. Portland, Maine 04106 by Elizabeth

Comment: Maine should rewrite the definition of "marriage",and then make it the law. from Avon by Randall

Comment: Marriage is between one man and one woman. The businesses who are now trying to get this law passed are looking for a monetary gain, not moral ethics. from Dayton by Pat

Comment: Gays & lesbians should be given the same basic human rights as everyone else in this country. Basic Human Rights. from Topsham, Maine by Morgan

Comment: Why should we stop there? Why not allow pedophiles to marry children? Or why not allow men or women to marry animals? or plants? It's clearly against nature! from Bangor, ME by Suzie

Comment: If we lived in a culture where every demographic group were entitled to the institution of marraige except for the African American, there would be outrage. If we lived in a culture where only the Jew were forced to call a "marraige" a "domestic partnership", then the American populace would be saddened and angered by such disparity . Unfortunately, the gay and lesbian community must presently live with this inequality and it should be rectified. from Freeport, ME by Anthony

Comment: Equal rights mean equal rights for all citizens of the State of Maine, and not some of the citizens. If this were a question of race, there would be no discrimination. It's time to rid ourselves of hatred and homophobia. from Topsham , ME by Roberta

Comment: All people deserve the same rights. from Gorham by Virginia

Comment: No, it should not be passed... it is a God instituted union between one man and one women. This is stated clearly in Gods Word ( Gen 2:18-24). Please do not allow this, we have as a nation thrown God out of everything and we wonder why this country is in a down spiral morally and, well, everything will down with it sooner, rather then later. By allowing this we are condoning sin. Christians are called to love the person, not the sin in their life. God loves everyone even though each one of us is tainted with sin thats why He sent his son to die for each one of our sins. from Parsonsfield by Nicole

Comment: If it doesn't pass, same-sex couples shouldn't have to pay taxes. If they're not getting the same benefits, why pay the same taxes? from ME by Sarah

Comment: Maine should not redefine a practice that has been in place since the beginning of time. from augusta,me by aaron

Comment: it's only fair! from Augusta, ME by Marion

Comment: a man has a pole and a woman has a hole for a reason... from dexter by travis

Comment: NO NO NO!!! This is not a matter of Civil Rights, just a matter of how much noise these groups can make. What ever happened to the morals and values that we are supposed to teach our children? I think it's funny that they are saying it would be extra revenue for the state. I don't care if it would pay for everything in this State, the answer is No No No!!!!! from Gray, Maine by Joe

Comment: it will help the economy and provide equal rights. from fayette by DIANA

Comment: I fail to understand why the religious rightwing and others cannot get it through their heads that same-sex marriage has ABSOLUTELY NOTHING to do with religion, god or any other entity! It’s purely and simply a civil ceremony joining two people of the same sex in marriage; NOT in holy union! I suspect that the answer to my first statement is that they are xenophobes, the Jesse Helms’s and Strom Thurmonds of the world; if you ain’t like me you’re a sinner. from Kennebunk, ME by Robert

Comment: It is not right and it is not good for children. from Sebago, ME by Bobbi

Comment: It's just wrong from Maine

Comment: Call me old fashion. I have no problem with unions of the same sex but to me marriage has a different meaning. Everyone should be given the same opportunities the State of Maine offers but veriage should reflect the difference. from Gray, Maine by Pam

Comment: Absolutely. We are talking about a legal contract, which does not include God, so the Christian argument that God made one man-one woman is null. Heterosexual couples do not have to have a religious ceremony for their marriage to be valid. Citizens who want to commit to each other before the laws of the State should have that opportunity and RIGHT. from Buxton, ME by Rebecca

Comment: Why not? What's the big deal anyway? Too much effort is being put forth in preventing something that shouldn't be made a big deal. Live and let be. from Portland by John

Comment: marriage, one man, one woman from Winslow, Maine by Lisa

Comment: I don't care,everyone should be able to marry the person they want, whether they are same sex or not from oob by Babs

Comment: That would be totally disgusting. What is this country coming to. It is a shame that these people are fighting for something that is wrong. Marriage is between a Man & WOmen not the same sex from Winthrop by Carolanne

Comment: Marriage is an institution designed by God, the Creator of the Universe. God says in His Word that homosexuality is an abomination. Therefore, we should not allow people who commit a sin that is an abomination to Him to marry. God designed marriage to be one man and one woman for one lifetime. from Bangor, ME by Raymond

Comment: If this legislation is pushed through... it will effect what is taught in our school cirriculums to our children. It will put Maine Public Schools in direct odds with many of Maines families and their values. Please do not take away my right as a parent..to give rights to someone else. Our schools have enough to worry about. from Topsham, ME by Jena

Comment: Dont we have enough on our plates, This country or state has more pressing business to attend to ! Maybe another time? from windham by al

Comment: No. Same sex marriage is wrong and should not be allowed. God made Adam and Eve not Adam and Steve. The Bible clearly states that there should be no same sex sexual relations - it is an abomination! from Brunswick by Carol

Comment: I don't belive so it remindes me of Sodem and Gomora excuse the spelling from Lewiston by Brian

Comment: No. Allowing same sex marriage would make this great commitment between two people a complete joke. Lets keep some things sacred in this Country. from Livermore Maine by Eric

Comment: No reason why in this day and age we should even thinking of not allowing this from Rockland by Yvonne

Comment: Yes! End discrimination in civil marriage!! from Portland, Me by Jill

Comment: When is everyone going to wake up? Marriage is defined as a union between a man and a woman. Think about, if God had created two men or two women, none of us would be here. It's sad to see what is happening to this country. The whole concept of gay marriage is disgusting. They should all go back into their closets. 'nough said. from Arundel, Maine by Disgusted

Comment: I think we need new ideas to join same sex couples. This will always be an issue so lets be the first state to solve it. Think outside the box. from Augusta / Maine by Russell

Comment: I have been blissfully married for about a year and a half. I cannot believe that we as a society deny some people the same happiness that I have, just because of with whom they are in love. from Portland, ME by Todd

Comment: equality under the law for all. from gorham, me by lori

Comment: The institution of marriage is not threatened by allowing same-sex couples to participate. Allowing same-sex marriage will strengthen and promote the family unit, and protect children who are being raised by same-sex couples. from Portland by Jan

Comment: Let's make Maine a model of tolerance for the rest of the country. from Tenants Harbor ME by Patricia

Comment: Don't discriminate! from Portland by Sean

Comment: There is NO compelling reason not to from Lamoine ME by Jim

Comment: Absolutely! Equality now!! from Boston, MA by Rebecca

Comment: from Brunswick by Danielle

Comment: Marriage equality needs to be nation-wide. from Boston, MA by Shawn

Comment: Let's work together to strengthen the institution of marriage by granting it to committed same-sex couples. from Lewiston by David

Comment: MARRIAGE IS BETWEEN MALE AND FEMLE from OTISFIELD / ME by LEONARD

Comment: EQUALITY, isn't that what America bases itself and it's beliefs on. from lewiston, maine by jayson

Comment: well because it is about equality and fairness. from Otter Creek by Laura

Comment: Have mercy on us O Lord! from Lewiston by David

Comment: Absolutely not!Marriage is between a man and a women and it should stay that way! from Auburn,Me

Comment: It is all about being in a loving, caring relationship and legal protections are needed. I am straight woman, but I have many friends who need the protection of marriage laws,and also the recognition that being in a loving relationship is important. from Yarmouth Maine by Sara

Comment: Yes, it's revenue at a time when we need it. It's good for everybody! from Westbrook, me by Maria

Comment: Mainers are basically fair-minded people who believe in live and let live. It's time for us to stop fighting about this civil right. from ME by Katharine

Comment: equality does not threaten anyone. It is justice. from MDI by Dawn

Comment: Equality is the issue. why do some have many benefits and it is denied to others? by Janet

Comment: This is progression. The United States needs to be a leader. Many other industrialized nations allow same sex marriage with no adverse results. from Winthrop/ME by Ryan

Comment: YES!!!!!! Diversity should be celebrated instead of discriminated against! I am disappointed that this is even an issue at all. from Maine by Kathleen

Comment: Equal marriage makes for equal taxes, equal medical & death rights, and equal protections for children of same sex partners. from Hallowell, ME by Elisabeth

Comment: Marriage is about love, not about gender or politics or religion.. those that try to make it out to be something it isn't should be ashamed of themselves and look more to their own house before prying into the lives of others... often happier others.. by Ross

Comment: Yes. Why should gay/lesbian couples not have the right to marry? We are people too!!! from Bath, ME by Angela

Comment: Marriage is sacred. One man and one woman. There is no discrimination, this is how it has been, and this is how it should remain. If those don't like it - move to another country, or deal with it. It's Adam and Eve, not Adam and Steve.. from ME by Erika

Comment: Equality in marriage is key to ensuring equal rights for all Maine people regardless of sexual orientation. from Trenton, ME by C.

Comment: No,I do not support gay marriage. I have met gay people and have talked with them, but I don't agree with the union because it would go against what I believe that marriage is between man and woman and created by God, yes it is. I will never agree with it nor will I support it. from Auburn by Coleen

Comment: it would be good for tourism. and would end discrimination against gays. and it doesn't require churches who oppose it to perform same sex marriages. it is good for the economy. from Lubec by Vern

Comment: http://equalitymaine.org/marriage-equality/marriage-common-questions please, educate yourselves on the issue. from portland by stephen

Comment: Same-sex partners should be afforded equal rights. This issue is about freedom and equality, and Maine has for too long not allowed our LGBT society to be treated as equals. from Oakland, Maine by Michael

Comment: It would be a great thing and would make many feel more comfortable. from Portland Maine by Sarah

Comment: No one, not the governement, has the right to change the definition of a word that has existed since man first walked this earth. from Limington,ME by Jamie

Comment: Equal rights! by Lee

Comment: This country was founded with a belief in God and equal rights for all. I personally do not treat my gay friends any differently than my straight friends. With that said we are all responsible for our own choices and being Gay is a choice. It is stated in the bible that Marriage is a union between a man and a woman. In a day and age when society is tearing itself apart a return to the principles and beliefs that this country was founded on would be a welcome change. from Saco by Mark

Comment: Gay marriage undermines family values from Bath by Paul

Comment: Ideally, the state would get out of the marriage business and only offer civil unions for all couples making marriage purely a religious act without legal standing. from Litchfield by Teague

Comment: Being an openly gay man, I think anyone should have the right to get married, despite what their sexual preference is. from Farmingdale, ME by Jimmy

Comment: It is what is fair, right and just. from Portland, ME by Jessica

Comment: Same sex marriage doesn't scare me--no healthcare does. This is a no brainer. Let's pass it and continue work on real issues that effect all of us.. from Portland ME by Deborah

Comment: no.... it will not help our screwed up state of maine in anyway shape or form.come on people get it together. we have way more important things to achieve than letting gays get married.... PLEASE from manchester, ME by robert

Comment: Absolutely! from Anchorage, Alaska by Marcus

Comment: I used to live in Maine and have very good friends still living there who deserve the right to enjoy the fruit of their joint efforts. from Anchorage, AK by Angela

Comment: Pass it and give me another reason to leave this God forsaken state. by T

Comment: There is no such thing as "gay" marriage. by Phil

Comment: Equal rights for everyone! It's 2009- time to wake up to the fact that the face of the traditional family is changing. from Waterford, mE by Sara

Comment: Why not? To steal a phrase, "you have nothing to fear but fear itself".... from New Gloucester, ME by Ken

Comment: Maine needs marriage equality. from South Portland, ME by Kristin

Comment: Equal rights for all committed couples are simply the right thing to do. from Warren, ME by Lis

Comment: Who are we to force our views on anyone? Isn't that why we are the land of the free? Should not the decision of who our partners are be our own? The instutioin of marriage is not threatend by this, it only offens certain people and that is why they are fighting it so hard. What you believe is what you believe, it is not what everyone else believes. You can poll a hundrend people and not everyone is going to like the flavor grape. So should we make it imposible for them to enjoy orange flavor? Ignorence leads to fear which leads hate and that ends with violence. from West Newfield by Jennifer

Comment: I am with Senator Damon! from Portland, Me by Tu rd

Comment: Absolutely! Why deny marriage rights to those who wish to have a monogamous, loving relationship? from OOB, Maine by Michael

Comment: come on people, get over it, i mean , does it actually effect you personally?? People love who they want to love, learn to except it. from wells by jennifer

Comment: We have more important issue going on this country than just who should and should not get married Lets put the effects in helping and money into helping people. from Portland by RIck

Comment: The Constitution guarantees us the right to pursue happiness which most of us experience through marriage. It is simply unconstitutional to deny any group the right to marry. from Lovell, Maine by Toni

Comment: Marriage between same sex couples has absolutely no impact on heterosexual marriage. Just as homosexuals have absolutely no impact on the 50% or higher divorce rate among heterosexual couples. Just as same sex marriage has absolutely no impact on single parent families where usually the male partner is no where in the picture. from 435 Blackstrap Road by Sue

Comment: Adam and Eve.....NOT Adam and Steve! from Straight, ME by Seriousely

Comment: Sure, why not. from Cleveland Ohio by Jack

Comment: It is upsetting that there is still so much hate and bigotry in Maine from Portland by Peter

Comment: The debate over marriage equality resembles the debate over racial equality. If we are to live out what is set forth in our constitution, "all [people] are created equal," than we must pass the marriage equality bill. As an ally, I have born witness to the pain that unjust laws prohibiting my friends and relatives who identify as gay and lesbian carry because their life partnership is not recognized for what it is--marriage. I look forward to the day that I will be able to celebrate the legal marriage of dear friends not because they are heterosexual and conform to what society says they 'should be,' but because two people-- two men, two women, or a man and a woman, can publicly and legally enter into a committed relationship. from Wales, Maine by Jordan

Comment: It is beyond time for marriage equality! It is also beyond time to enforce the separation of church and state... keep your religion out of my life! from Portland, ME by Kait

Comment: since when does the constitution say everyone treated equal unless you are gay from auburn me by mariah

Comment: No! Traditional marriage has been tried and proven for centuries. Homosexuality has been tried and failed! I believe in people taking responsibility for their own actions. Instead Government keeps trying to step in and take control and fix everything. What happened to responsibility? Equality doesn't mean acceptance of everything that one wants. If a child wants candy do we give in and give it to him just because he wants it? “No other success can compensate for failure in the home.” David O. McKay We are failing our marriages and our children if we allow homosexuality to be the norm. It is not the norm. It is still the minority. Let us stand up for what is right and good. Let us stand up for the families of our future. from Buxton, Maine by Vicki

Comment: This is a complex issue. First, Traditional marriage was meant to be between a man and a woman and as far as I know it started as a religious institution. While I believe civil marriage and equal rights in those marriages is something gay people as a viable community within our society should have...I wonder if gay people detest all religions because they call homosexuality wrong, and some punish it, then why do they want force their way into changing church rites? You can't just change a religion!? The gay movement has become violent and gay people are pushing the norms of our society further into sin and lawlessness. Have you ever gone to a heterosexual parade? No. Our parades are patriotic and for celebrating specific holidays, but they're not for celebrating heterosexuality. Gay parades are disgusting displays of behavior that should not be allowed in public. The gay movement started out wanting to ban discrimination at work and in looking for housing. Now the gay movement has become empowered and corrupt, just as our government has [to a large extent]and they want to tear down or change our sacred institutions. I say give them civil marriage and equal rights in those marriages, and keep them out of our churches. Next they'll be trying to force schools to teach sexuality in kindergarden, as they are trying to in CA. Political Correctness, as with anything, has gone too far and has empowered people to force our communities to accept aberrant behavior that is not acceptable. It's time to just say no. from Lewiston by Lynda

Comment: Equal rights, people. Equal rights for ALL people. from Gorham by Susan

Comment: I do beleive that those who are inlove should be able to express themselves with marriage. Who are we to choose who one can love and not. This shouldn't even have to be discussed. It's not like you have to be at these peoples weddings. Subjects such as this are upsetting! from Portland, Maine by Nerissa

Comment: Marriage is when God joins one man and one woman. Homosexual couples - and atheists, for that matter - should get civil unions. The governmental benefits could match, but it's not marriage. from Augusta, ME by Chris

Comment: I'm Gay, and I certainly wouldn't want the right to marry! at least this way I can walk away without the same problems hetrosexuals have, and alot more money in my pocket! from Old Orchard Beach by Ryan

Comment: NO, I agree they should have tax breaks but marriage is unexceptable from Southport Me by Judith