California's same-sex marriage battle has new target: Maine

Photo: Same-sex marriage supporters and opponents in March outside the California Supreme Court in San Francisco. Credit: Barbara Davidson / Los Angeles Times

By Jessica Garrison| August 14, 2009

Partisans on both sides of California’s battle over same-sex marriage have a new target: Maine.

That state’s Legislature voted last spring to allow gay marriage -- but only if the measure survives a so-called “people’s veto” in which voters will have a chance to review the Legislature’s decision.

That has made the Pine Tree State the next battleground over same sex marriage. Today, Equality California, one of this state’s largest gay rights groups, sent out a fundraising appeal urging supporters to send their donations to Maine.

The appeal noted that opponents of gay marriage, including many who were active in California’s $80-million battle over Proposition 8, have raised more than twice as much money. Frank Schubert, who managed the Yes on 8 campaign, is deeply involved in Maine’s campaign.

“A victory in Maine is essential for victory in California,” wrote Geoff Kors, head of EQCA.