Iowa's High Court Legalizes Gay Marriage

Yesterday Vermont's House passed a same-sex marriage bill and today Iowa's Supreme Court ruled unanimously that a gay marriage ban violates the state constitution.

"The court reaffirmed that a statute inconsistent with the Iowa constitution must be declared void even though it may be supported by strong and deep-seated traditional beliefs and popular opinion," said a summary of the ruling issued by the court. ...

Des Moines attorney Dennis Johnson, who argued on behalf of the gay and lesbian couples, said "this is a great day for civil rights in Iowa."

"We have all of you courageous plaintiffs to thank: Go get married, live happily ever after, live the American dream," he said.

Opponents have 21 days to file for a rehearing. But get this: Polk County Attorney John Sarcone says his office, which argued against gay marriage, will NOT be appealing. Sarcone seems like a level-headed guy:

"Our Supreme Court has decided it, and they make the decision as to what the law is and we follow Supreme Court decisions," Sarcone said. "This is not a personal thing. We have an obligation to the law to defend the recorder, and that's what we do."

That doesn't mean others won't request a rehearing but as it stands today Iowa -- yes, Iowa! -- has become the third state in the nation to legalize gay marriage.