Howie Kent @howiek25
The Delegates just voted to ratify our party platform. First time ever in history that we have marriage equality in there. History. #DNC
The platform also calls for the complete repeal of the Defense of Marriage Act and the passage of the Respect for Marriage Act, allowing the Federal government to treat same-sex marriages as marriages for the purpose of Federal law.
Who would have thought eight years ago when Democrats were hiding under rocks to avoid having to talk about gay rights that this day would come so soon?
Update: Email From Evan Wolfsom of Freedom to Marry
Just moments ago, the Democratic Party voted to support the freedom to marry as an official plank in the party’s platform, its vision for America. The Democrats are now on record as the first major political party in U.S. history in favor of true and full equality for same-sex couples.
3:53 PM PT: From USA Today
Long before the platform vote, "everyone knew it was going to happen," acknowledged Ryan Butler , 33, a North Carolina delegate. "But to actually be here and to be a part of it … I will remember this for the rest of my life."
4:09 PM PT: From the News Tribune
Democrats staked out unmistakably liberal positions on some of the nation’s most volatile social issues Tuesday, notably abortion and gay marriage, planting the party as firmly on the political left as Republicans are on the political right.
4:14 PM PT: I am impressed with the lack of press about this so far. Even LGBT sites have had nothing noting this yet.
4:22 PM PT: Prop 8 Trial Tracker takes note
4:38 PM PT: Detroit Free Press headline: Democrats place gay marriage on convention platform