Referendum in North Carolina prohibits same-sex marriage, as 3 states hold primaries

A referendum that would constitutionally prohibit same-sex marriage in North Carolina has sparked some attention on Tuesday, as three states hold primaries. Amendment One would modify North Carolina’s constitution to say “marriage between one man and one woman is the only domestic legal union that shall be valid or recognized in this State.” Supporters of the amendment say it is necessary to stop those whom they say are trying to redefine marriage. Evangelist Billy Graham, who typically avoids political battles, endorsed the ballot initiative and took out full-page ads in 14 North Carolina newspapers flaunting his support for the amendment. He says “the Bible is clear — God’s definition of marriage is between a man and a woman.”

Opponents to the measure say it is unnecessary since the state already has a law in place that prohibits same-sex marriages and that it could jeopardize domestic violence protections for women and affect health benefits for same-sex couples. The bill, in which the amendment is derived, says a simple majority is needed for the amendment to pass. Roughly 500,000 people have already cast ballots on the measure through early voting or absentee ballots. Former President Bill Clinton opposed the measure in a taped recording sent by phone to hundreds of thousands of North Carolina homes. In the recording, Clinton says, “So the real effect of the law is not to keep the traditional definition of marriage, you’ve already done that. The real effect of the law will be to hurt families and drive away jobs. North Carolina can do better.” West Virginia and Indiana will also hold primaries on Tuesday.