Court watchers here in Idaho had an inkling this was going to happen, and now it has. A federal judge has
declared Idaho's ban on marriage equality unconstitutional.
U.S. District Judge Candy Dale has ruled Idaho’s ban on same-sex marriage unconstitutional, overturning it. The court’s order takes effect at 9 a.m. on May 16; you can read the judge’s 57-page decision here. “The court’s ruling is a victory not only for the courageous couples who brought this case, but for everyone who cares about freedom and fairness,” said Deborah Ferguson, attorney for the four same-sex couples who sued.
As of now, marriages are scheduled to be legal as of 9:00 Friday morning. However, Gov. Butch Otter immediately issued a press release signaling that he will direct the attorney general to request a stay, and will appeal the ruling. Because, Idaho.
Our state's primary is coming up May 20, so we're in debate week now. Watching those GOP primary debates has been among the most soul-crushing activities you can imagine for an Idaho liberal. This is a wonderful, wonderful antidote.