Next Step for the FMA

Is there any chance for a federal marriage amendment? The next step in passing the FMA should actually have been the first step. Unfortunately, marriage backers got things a little out of order. If we learn anything from the history of amendments we learn that, short of having a civil war, the only way to pass constitutional amendments is with a broad base of support that must be translated into both political parties on Capitol Hill. One party cannot make a constitutional amendment happen, especially in the Modern Senate. 60 votes are required to bring a measure to a vote and 67 votes are needed to pass the amendment. Remember, US Senators serve 6 year terms. Replacing the make-up of the Senate to make it more “pro-marriage” will take at least 6 years and maybe longer. So, unless pro-marriage amendment organizations have a magic wand, somebody better wake up to the political realities of this debate. The only way to pass this amendment is to raise up a body of voters who will not support any candidate - Democrat or Republican - that will not vote for a federal marriage amendment. That’s the easy part. Next, we the people, have to find candidates who are truly pro-marriage and fund them to run in Congressional primary races against candidates IN BOTH PARTIES. If we cannot or are unwilling do these things, then all the rest is wishful thinking. One thing is certain, those opposed to marriage are doing those things right now.