good evening everyone… a lot happening today.. should be a good broadcast…i look forward to your comments.

Thanks to the California Supreme Court, I am no longer a second-class citizen tonight–I am a “real” person!

We had a rally on the steps of City Hall, covered by our three local affiliates, earlier this evening. In a town of 45,000, where an estimated 50% of the residents are gay and lesbian you can imagine what a big deal this is to us, as well as a potential boom to our tourist (wedding) economy. We’ll see what happens in November…

360, thank you for leading with this tonight. I feared you might completely overlook it.

Anderson, I love your election coverage. You totally rock! It is obvious you enjoy it.

Will you be able to spend a few minutes on the situation in China and Myanmar as well, though? More than what is in the bulletin? Thanks.

Sounds like an interesting program tonite.

Hello Anderson, Erica, Bloggers (all!)
Happy Thursday!!! I was surprised that gays changed the law in California……

President Bush makes an inference that Barrack Obama would have sucked up to Adolph Hitler?? Personaly, i think Barrack Obama would be a consumate diplomat, something that George Bush never was…

Good evening Anderson, Erica and bloggees.

Looking forward to a great show

Anderson I think you would be awesome on DWTS….some rumba and tangos oh my

I was happy when I heard the ruling. It’s nice to see some states aren’t living in the past.

Anderson, Au contraire! I would love to see you dance!

Hey Anderson and Erica, looking forward to a great show! Glad the courts ruled in favor of gay marriages. There’s no justifiable reason to not allow these people to marry.

Hi everyone.
I’m glad for all gay couples! I hope it gets legalized in all states.
I work with a lot of gay guys and not one of them seems to be interested in this, though. They don’t seem to care. Hmmm…

Congratulations Casey!

Canada has had legal marriage since 2005. People may stop coming to Canada to get married now.

Hi Anderson,

This ruling is an outrage. The sanctity of marriage: a union between a man and a woman must be respected.

Shame when a sexual preference gets laws passed.

I cannot stop smiling- this is a monumental day!

Minou>We are conditioned to “stuff it.” When it eventually happens to those you know, you’ll see an outpouring.

Oh Megan O.!
You’re right! I agree with you!!!! lol!

I don’t think the rest of the country is as open to gay issues as Cali is.

I think it’s sad that California even had a gay marriage ban in the first place. How many states have such laws?

well over due!
g/l/b and transgender deserve FULL rights like every American!

I can only respond to those who object to todays ruling: Read the constitution.

“Shame when a sexual preference gets laws passed.”

Even when anti-gay legislation is passed? Or just when legislation supporting gay marriage is passed?

I will never understand how homosexual marriage threatens the sanctity of heterosexual marriage. I think divorce is much more of a threat to marriage than anything else.

Great ruling by CA SC – Nearly 150 years after the 14th amendment introduced the concept of equal protection to our Constitution – reality is slowly but surely catching up to the words – progress is slow – but moving in the right direction tostart to eliminate discrimination in all forms

Seven of the six California Supreme Court Justices are Republican appointees (by three Governors). Today’s vote was 4-3.

It is scary how many prejudices many Americans have!!

This ruling opens the door to marriage including incest, polygamy and eventually pedophila. It’s like a slow erosion of values. After all, those special interest groups could convince judges that they should be considered “personal decisions” and be made legal for marriage

There is no reason why a gay couple shouldn’t have the opportunity to be married and I’m so happy that the California Supreme court affirmed this. Congrats to all of the gay couples who will now be able to marry.

The divorce courts better get ready for some new customers.

Paolo: a loving union between two people is a wonderful thing,no matter what sex they are. Surely God agrees?

More than 250 religious & civil rights leaders and organizations filed briefs, as well as numerous legal and bar associations, constitutional law scholars and family law professors, to register their support.

The case was among the most heavily briefed cases in the history of the California Supreme Court. More than 20 counties and municipalities filed friend-of-the-court briefs supporting same-sex marriages.

Hi Minou,
Missed you since long time, Welcome back!

California is going to get swarmed in 30 days (tourism is going down in Canada in about 30 days )

Congrats Casey, you must be overjoyed

I never understood why some people get so up in arms if 2 men or 2 women want to get married.

How do other people’s decision how they choose to live their lives impact everyone else’s

Do we need to legislate how people should think, behave, or who they can marry??

I agree with JoAnn, good point
there governor is going to stop overturn this unfortunately

Good evening Anderson! Time to bring out the champagne! Hooray for the state of California! It’s time for more states come into the 21st century! Cheers!

What a great day for gays! It’s about time they get equal rights!

Hi Anderson. My partner lives in Spain and without gay marriage we cannot ever consider living in the United States. This is hard for me since Iove the US, my family and my Spanish partner. Can you ask your experts what would happen for a couple like us in light of this judgement? If I married him, could he live here legally?

I am glad California passed this ruling. Everyone deserves the right to marry no matter what their preference is.

Everyone was celebrating in the streets downtown today in SF, straight or gay.

Gay marriage opens up a big can of worms in other areas.
I hope other minorities don’t mind when Gay’s use affirmative action to move along their employment agenda.

Megan O.>I didn’t realize how emotional this was for me until I was being interviewd by a reporter (by phone) and had to turn away from the phone twice because I couldn’t speak. I can’t explain what it feels like to be treated like I’m whole, finally.

There is so much hate in the world, why waste time standing in the way of love?

Thank you, Megan! I was in Guam. Glad to be back.

You know when the same sex marriages first happened in Canada people totally got all up in arms but now no one ever talks about. Those against it now will just have to deal. As long is your not hurting other people I say why not

I agree with you Joann. she have good point! me either!

I don’t think it’s right to dismantle a 10,000 yr. old institution that is intimately tied to procreation of the species.Liberals have already done enough damage to marriage with no-fault divorce and expanding welfare, but I guess they won’t be satisfied until they ‘ve killed it altogether.

Hi, everyone — def a big night, good to have you blogging with us

equal rights need apply to all. Good for the a California Supreme Court for recognizing that and having the courage to act.

Wow Casey well I am really happy for you today.

I wonder if this does truly mean the same ruling for the rest of the country. As much as I’d like to see it happen, I think that conservatives against the issue aren’t just going to go monkey see monkey do because California ruled a certain way. Why some people honestly think their marriages are threatened by this I’ll never understand, but they are out there and I doubt they’ll go down quietly.

Gavin Newsom is a visionary. Bravo to my native California and to the gay community.

There are so many gay couples who’ve maintained long time committed relationships–possibly far more than the straight couples who rage on and on about “family values” and yet have ridiculously high divorce rates.

I feel like an american! Now if we could just get the rest of the country on board.

Shame when a sexual preference gets laws passed.

Yes it is, and I believe that saying only a man and a woman can enter into a loving, lifelong relationship is the exact same thing.
I think this is a great day for many of my friends, I am happy for them, I just hope the insurance companies dont put up too much of a fight for their spousal rights.

Hello bloggers! Interesting discussion on the blog. So are we saying that one must be married in order to raise children now regardless if its same sex or not?

We would take huge steps. This makes me happy. California is bomb.

Robin Williams said it best:”I don’t see the what the big deal is about same sex marraige.Anybody who’s ever been maried can tell you it’s all the same sex!”

Besides,why should heterosexuals be the only people who get to suffer the benefiets of a migraine head ache brought on by the complications of divorce proceedings?We’re all created equal,right?

Divorce rate: 3.6 per 1,000 population

Would it be less if there was same sex marriage?

Ok, that is way too cool. Does it run on gas? Hopefully not……… If not, I hope it would get a ton of miles to the gallon.

great news about California- I will never understand how people are so threatened by gay marriage, really how will your life change if some gay person you don’t even know gets married? its not like they are going to come get married in your house (not that I would care).

I am happy for those who are able to get married now!

I never understood why eve-angelicals adamantly are so adamantly opposed to gay marriage
it is their business they are not a threat to society just because they think it is not natural
I think their time would be better spent if they fought against child molesters or someone or something that is actually a threat!

I was very surprised to hear that the judges on California’s supreme court are considered to be conservative. Maybe there is hope for the rest of the country to be more accepting!!!

that’s funny he is not going to pee in the batter of the wedding cake

This is good news! I have 2 gay cousins living is US and I am so happy for them! This is the reason they left my country more than a decade ago!

“We’re not here to pee in the batter of your wedding cake.” Dan Savage, you’re my hero.

A ban against gay marriage is discrimination… plain and simple.

It will be amazing to see if this Gay marriage issue is still with us 20 years from now – if it is, how many times will these laws be reversed and reinstated.

Xtina, Just because they’re gay doesn’t mean they can’t have kids.

I can guarantee this guy that any gay couple that comes to California to get married are not inclined to return to where they are not given equal rights.

Thank God for California!!!

I am in Washington State and our Supreme Court ruled against gay marriage. I still believe that we would have marriage here if it had not been an ellection year.

This is a wonderful day for all of us who value equality.

Greg>There is no “gay” agenda. I’m in the middle of a hotbed of influential gay people and I can honestly say this perception just isn’t so. (I hate politics.)

after those shameless comments President Bush made this morning, it’s nice to have something to be proud of today as an American. good for California.

@Megan O: Absolutely right! The opposition is just trying to blow this all out of proportion, trying to frighten people about it. The people screaming the loudest against it are the dangerous ones.

Someone said today that gay people won the right to get divorced.

“…among these are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.” The words of our Declaration of Independence says it loud and clear! Strait, gay, lesbian, whoever you are; we as Americans have the right to be married to anyone. Well done CALIFORNIA!

I applaud the California Supreme Court for their ruling. However, I do fear that it will be the lightning rod that Republicans will use to try to win the White House.

As for Perkins – does he really think that marriage is down because of gay unions? If that’s true, he would rather see gay people marrying a straight partner and ruining both their lives? Hmm – that’s worth preserving….

What baloney, Mr. Perkins. Please…. two people getting married does not effect other people. I don’t get how two men getting married is such a huge threat. If you don’t like it, that’s someone’s right but it still doesn’t effect your life day to day.

Casey JPS, I echo the others good wishes. We are all equal..period.
I’ve always been glad to be a Californian.

if they are so worried about the sanctity if marriage they should shut down those 24 hour chapels in Las Vegas.

Does this affect the law that says relatives cannot marry? Not that anyone would want to marry their relative no matter how much they love them, but doesn’t it unravel some of the other laws?

Hi

I am very happy that finally another State has woken up….. As a South African I am proud that I live in a country that LGBT marriage is possible. In many ways its sad that only two states this is possible. I suppose it is also important to remember that a gay lifestyle is still illegal in many countries around the world. The LGBT battle has a long way to go to ensure that the rights of gay people across the globe.

Why is it taking so long for the USA to recognize gay couples? Supposed to be the land of the free where everyone is equal, but many states and laws are keeping gay couples from recieveing benefits that straight married couples have. Its not fair.

I fail to see any rational argument against same-sex marriage. The only difference is that instead of marrying someone of the opposite gender, you are marrying someone of the same gender. Incest and pedophilia hurt people, but how does being in a mutual caring relationship regardless of the genders of persons involved hurt anyone?

Hi Jolene,
No, I don’t think its an endorsement of marriage any more then interracial marriage or man/woman marriage….its all about gay individuals having the choice too.

Why does anyone care about getting married anyway, why do you have to sign a paper to say I love You?

Kids need a mom and a dad– I grew up without a dad and turned out just fine— great for the CA Supreme Court

Thank you Anderson and staff for having a show where the guests discuss the issues and do not argue over each other. It is a pleasure to watch and becoming very rare these days.

if these “family values” folks spent time on addressing adultery and honoring one’s committment, the institution of marriage would be much better served

Casey JPS – California; We usually disagree, but on this issue we are in complete agreement! Congratulations!

You were never a second class citizen.

Children will do well as long as they have people who LOVE them……doesn’t matter what sex those people are

What kids need growing up is love and guidance. Not one man and one woman.

ending slavery, women get to vote, interracial marriage.. the great thing about our constitution is that the minority is still important and the rights of those people are protected, even though the majority of americans disagree. The Majority ( like the mob mentality) is not always right. Go AC!!

This is about money and legal rights not love and marriage.

Kids need a mom and a dad? What about all the single parents out there? Are they better equipped to raise a child than a homosexual couple? Besides, this debate is not about a gay couples right to adopt children, it’s about their right to get married.

I agree with Mr. Savage! Two loving parents is very important whether they are gay or straight! The time’s they are a changin’!!

But seriously,one my sons,I suspect is gay.He’s young and still has a lot of growing to do before he discovers who he is.This gives me hope that no matter what his direction in life is,he will be allowed to share it with whomever he pleases emotionally AND legeally enjoy the advantages shared by opposite sex couples.

it is unfortunate that their is still such double standards and prejudices for gays and lesbians. because of this their is a lot of pressure for famous people to “come out” this always makes me angry. this is an individuals choice!!!

As much as I believe having a mom and a dad is great for a child, I don’t think the child suffers when they don’t. That’s an insane argument.

What a victory in California! I’m so happy to hear this news!

I have to say, I just do not understand why people in 2008 are so opposed to two people who love each other making a lasting bond in marriage whether it be heterosexual or homosexual.

I say let’s celebrate those couples who just want to be together and raise a family in love and happiness!

Ok, so kids need a mom and a dad. But what happens to kids living in divorced families? What happens to kids living in a single parent family because of death? I say way to go gays, they should be able to raise a child if they want. Its not going to hurt anyone. Kids just need someone to love and nurture them. In my opinion, religion is going out the window in America anyway. I personally do not care if marriage is an old tradition. Traditions change.

Shame on Bush! Forget democrats. The jews in this country, such as myself, should also be outraged, and I am. Common sense tells you that you don’t talk about Hitler in light of Israeli Independence. Give me a break!

Sean>I don’t want to be negative, but I do want to point out that being gay is not a “lifestyle,” it is how God made me. This is how I came out of the womb.

Good for California, at least they are moving ahead and making progress, unlike the rest of the country who seems to be stuck in a time warp.

Hi Chuck! Good point! Why do people think that gay individuals cannot have or raise children? Even if they choose to adopt it is still a family!

John McCain finding Bin Laden….good luck.

Congratulations to California and its gay community! Here in Canada we have had gay marriage for a while now. I can tell you it has been nothing but justice and a public good here and certainly no one I’ve encountered thinks less of marriage as a result.

Alys; I thought about that myself! Maybe they should make it more difficult for everyone to marry, then maybe people would make better choices.

gay individuals do have rights…..but under the constitution in the country you live in and love so much,once again we see as another one of the ideas this country was founded on is once again buried “in the files of stuff everyone has to agree with and deal with” the founding fathers are do the YMCA in their graves…..

I don’t understand why religious people are so afraid of same sex marriage. I don’t believe the statement that kids only do well with a mom and dad…as long as they are loved and their parents are involved in their life is what is important.

Bush taking a shot at Obama?? This should be a gem – and another embarrasment for the Republicans (I am not sure Bush could do anything else to wear more eggs on his face)

I agree completely with Paulette. The rest of the country does seem to be stuck in a time warp. It’s time they come into the 21st centruy and give people the rights they deserve. Good for California.

Hey everyone,

Jumping in late. I am so excited about the CA ruling. I have watched so many relatives and friends live in secret and be counted as less than because of who they are. And in August my 19-year old cousin killed himself because he realized he was gay and couldn’t accept it (our uber conservative Roman Catholic family did not help at all) . If this law helps keep another 19-year old kid alive because he realizes he’s equal, well…

I don’t know how the Beat 360 could be better!

President Bush was better off staying out of the ‘08 race like he said he was going to.

I actually agree with Bush on Obama’s foriegn policy plans. Our country has tried that approach since communism, facism, and terrorism have existed. It has never won us anything but pain and suffering.

Bush really went over the line today… of course he was talking about Obama. He should be ashamed

It is so easy for straight people to get married and divorced. Now gay people can join in the fun (although coming from divorced parents…..it ain’t that fun)

Uh-oh! I heard president called names on attack on terror like appeasing hilter this morning ! that is so harsh! ouch!

McCain is just telling the American people what they want to hear.

Bush is the lowest of the low.

Bush is so off base and out of touch, it is absolutely astounding.

Hi, Angel. For many people, it’s more than singing a paper to say “i love you”, it’s about their relationship get the same recognition as other, heterosexual relationships. That includes not only practical things like benefits, but also being recognized as next of kin, and as the most important person in their partner’s life… and having society acknowledge the relationship and the family they have created.

I agree with Bush. There is just some people that you just can not sit down and talk with. It will do no good.

With one in two marriage ending in divorce, what give heterosexuals the right to say that they are superior in this matter? I say let everyone marry and be equally miserable. Besides the divorce lawyers will love it.
Rhiannon
Little Rock

The only children that may “aspire to an eventual homosexual marriage” are homosexual children that grow up to be homosexual adults. When all people realize it is not a “preference” but a state of being, just as natural as being born blue eyed or red haired, maybe they will stop equating it will criminal acts such as pedophilia. The 30 million gay Americans think so, anyway. Everyone deserves to have their love respected and honored. I am proud to be Canadian!

I agree with Joe Biden. Nice forceful statement.

Joe Biden is awesome…..I liked him alot when he was running for President

Eight years of NOT dialoguing with our enemies has sure worked well under the Bush administration!! Awar without end and Iran stronger than before.

Anybody but Bush and McCain would make America safer. The more enemies you have the less safe you have and these guys want to shoot now talk later

President Bush has some of the lowest approval ratings in this country’s history and is not viewed very favorably around the world. Does anyone really care what he says anymore?

Brandi, I do agree with you so I don’t wanna sound rude but it is not a preference.
often gays and lesbians try hard to fight their urges because of their families or religions
I am sure it was just a bad choice of words because you obviously are open minded. I am just stating this because many people who are homophobic feel that gay people choose to be gay

Biden is right….George Bush is an absolute joke….Anderson when are you going to hold Bush/McCain supporters feet to the fire and ask them exactly how isolating Iran has worked out for the last 8 years….they are stronger now than ever…..

Erica, thank you. Being acknowledged is sometimes the biggest part of the pie.

Erica, I understand now, sorry Mom

Oh this country is so blind….it’s not the fact that we think gay people are going to cause a problem it’s the fact that it starts with gay marriage and then what’s next? This country is going to hell in a hand basket. Hate the sin…love the sinner!

Well said Erica. I think the saddest thing is when gay couples are not considered next of kin.

Yippieeeeeeee!!! Another state we can get married in. I hope this spreads too all the other states sooner then later. We are all equal, and we can’t help who we fall for.

While I support gay marriage as a step toward equality, it still leaves single people with less than full legal equality. Why should the state give tax breaks and legal breaks only to people who choose to live as a couple through sexual bonding? What about all the single parents, relatives raising children alone or people who are single and childless?

Bonnie religious people are not afraid of same sex marriage. Please show some tolerance and respect for those who believe that living a homosexual life is a sin. You may not agree with it but you can make an effort not to belittle their belief.

Since when has diplomacy been naive? I’m pretty sure that Bush has had several meetings with leaders in Iran himself. If this is not fear mongering, I don’t know what is.

I fail to see how the republican foreign policy to date has worked – should we just ignore people who we disagree with in the hopes they go away?

Thank you Lynn, thank you.

In answer to those who would be concerned about Republicans using this against Democrats this fall, I would remind them that six of seven justices on this conservative California Supreme Court were appointed by Republicans.

I imagine that accounts for the bit of panic I noted in Tony Perkins cracking arguments this evening.

Steven (From Hixson, TN) Bravo to you for standing up for your son even before you know whether or not he is gay — and for so clearly not having an issue with it if he is! I wish we lived in a world where the doctors said to our parents, “Here’s your new child. He might like boys. She might like girls. Or vice versa. It’s all good.”

Bush’s statements just reiterate why he’s been such a poor President – he disdains peace, he attacks people who have a difference of opinion, and he has a painfully ignorant view of the world. There should be a huge celebration in January when he leaves office. Any one of the candidates will be a better President. Then again, so would a trained monkey.

How can McCain just declare that he will win the war by 2013? there is no way to ‘win’ this war. He is DELUSIONAL.

Ask the guy from the family research council how he would feel if the situation were opposite-hetrosexual marriage was banned and homosexual marriage was the norm. The Bible says do unto others how you would have them do unto you. But I guess I forgot that those folks are always right. I think I’ll stay with the left.

As a Jewish Democrat I once supported and voted for Obama. Obama’s true personality has been revealed over the past few months and I’ve decided to vote for McCain.

Bush cannot get out fast enough…and McCain-his remarks are going to keep us in war indefinately…on both fronts.

I find it backwards thinking to believe that g/l couples should not have the right to marry. I have a friend who was raised by two mothers,her and her brothers is very successful and well rounded. I believe that people who are against gay marriage are shortsighted and need to become friends with a g/l family and see how normal they are.

The “Gay Card” is finally on the table for the election now. Republicans will use it to win back many of the blue collar voters they have lost.

Obama says he felt insulted when someone called him a “boy”, however, yesterday he addressed a female reporter by calling her “sweetie”. Going by his logic, calling that reporter “sweetie” would be considered an insult.

Obviously, Obama’s philosophy is “Do as I say, not as I do.”

Why not extend this conversation to Rice, Gates … Powell … all of whom have echoed Obama’s comments … Bush and, by extension, McCain have shown themselves as true hypocrites, and cowardly hypocrites at that.

McCain has contradicted himself more than any politician I’ve ever seen. Is there ANY issue that he has not changed his mind (or “shifted course”) on???

I was raised in California by my married mother and absent father. Marriage is only as strong as the union each makes to the other. Any tool that helps a loving couple strengthen a families bond is a good thing. I am proud of California today.

Yeh Erica, I think society as a whole is too judgemental about EVERYTHING, just be and let be. The desperate need to be an individual and stand out when it is benefits versus the need to conform and not stand out when it benefits. Let God decide what is right and what is wrong; just be happy for people who are happy!

Sue Canada>If one thinks being/living as a homosexual is a sin, then they need to take that up with God and ask why God created so many of us (homosexuals)?

If any democrat had a thought about voting for McCain instead of the dem left standing, listening to today’s speech should have cured that problem!

McCain is just an extension of the last eight years of fear mongering and bullheadedness…

I pray that I will always be naive enough to believe that dialogue with your enemy should be the first step in diplomacy and not an afterthought like Bush and his cronies!!!

I actually support equal rights for everyone, gay, straight, white, purple, even polka dotted. I was just saying, besides the perks, who needs a piece of paper to make a commitment.

Totally agreed, Erica. I’ve heard of situations when a person is hospitalized and thier partners aren’t allowed in to see them because they aren’t relate, even though they have been partners for years.

Megan, your right, Joe Biden is a true Statesman.

Why do republican feel the need to treat the american people as children???

Vote for us or the Boogeyman is going to get you? Scaring people is no way to lead a country.

I don’t think “religious” people are afraid of same sex marriage. They just think it’s wrong.

Sue in Canada-
it’s funny that you demand “tolerance and respect” when not giving it yourself. The church discriminates against groups of people who didn’t make a conscious choice for whom they love. Homosexuals were born gay and it’s plain and simple wrong not to give them full rights in every area of life.

Thank you EJ and Megan O.
I agree with you guys, Joe Biden is best comment.

Alys, he didn’t “declare” that the war would be won by 2013, he was sharing his “vision” of 2013. This is obviously a stretch to meet voters half way on the issue of the War. However, I am curious about how he has the audacity to speak about reducing troops in Iraq when he voted for the troop surge!!!

Instead of fighting for the right to marry, you all should be fighting for laws that protect long term partnerships so you are protected even if you decide not to marry. I’m not against gay marriage, but I would have thought that this would have been a main goal and not rule it out so easily.

Katy, just because someone puts label on Obama does not make it so.

Genevieve, he apologized for that.

Hi,

I am a Gay male from India, even if its going to take atleast a 100 years for the gays in india to get all the rights that you guys have in california, as a gay man i am very happy and hopeful that our future will be better..

Calling Obama a boy is an isult, just as calling a female sweetie is. He called the woman and apologized, and I can bet u he will steer clear of that term going forward. Get over it Genevieve.

Well said, Casey. I have many gay friends whose lives would have been easier had they been straight. Instead they made themselves miserable trying to convince themselves they were straight (for a while anyway),

I love this blog! Different topics, different opinions, yet most are respectfully presented. Agreeing to disagree and continue the discussion may be a map our politicians could learn from!

Casey – excellent point!!

Annette, I totally agree–I can’t see how in good conscience any Democrat would want to ensure that the failed policies of the Bush Administration continue with a John McCain presidency. Why shoot yourself in the foot?

Hi Anderson,

I was just wondering if the culture of gay marraiges caught on among all the other states, then what impression would it create upon children of heterosexual parents in the long run?

Bush’s comments make it very clear to Jewish Americans where Obama stands. Obama can kiss those votes and those dollars goodbye.

First of all, what bothers me the most is that couples will live together before they are married just like husband and wife for years before they decide to get married! That just changes the whole meaning of marriage! I also don’t understand why this gay marriage thing is such a big deal. They are already living together like a married couple, what’s the point in getting married?? The whole point to marriage is bringing two people together, not two people who are already together!

We need to open up to the world even further if we want to fight terror. President Bush is trying to strike a cord by his Hitler comparrison, but there is some evidence of the Middle east moving into a more Euro/American friendly direction. In the begining of this week, Serbia has parliment elections in which President Tadic’s party (which is more western friendly) won the majority of the votes. We need to nurture with diplomacy, and not shut it out!

Chuck, it would be nice for Republicans to accept gays but it doesn’t seem like enough of them do and even if they did they would have to have a very strong character because it is not politically acceptable in “their community”

I am curious, why is a “civil union” not equivalent to “marriage”? Are gay marriages performed in a church? If they are then call it marriage and they would be recognized by the church, If they are at the courthouse then it is a civil union and not recognized by the church, just like heterosexual courthouse weddings. It gives everyone the same rights and there would be much less controversy surrounding the issue.

So John Macain is now claiming that he is the first to offer specifics of change…. In my opinion, if it were not for Barrack Obama and Hillary Clinton, the word “change” would not even be in Mr. Macains vocabulary. He is offering change becasue he figuratively has to offer change…

Katy, the difference between McCain and Obama is night and day. If I were you I would seriously take a good look at where you stand on the issues, and then make your decision based on that.

It’s okay to think something is wrong but to impose your beliefs and values on others really isn’t right. If gay marriage bothers someone then they shouldn’t marry someone of the same sex. It seems to me that people that are so worried about it need to fix things in their life and leave others alone. I don’t tell people how to live. It’s their own business.

jacqui chan– i didnt find you rude at all, i am probably too open-minded for my own good, i do not feel it is a preference either. even if it was, it would be each individuals preference which is also protected under our constitution. so either way, preference or not is irrelevant.

i am familiar with the homophobic people you are referring to and i always find myself defending my friends (and some relatives) and the rights i believe they should be afforded.

Exactly right , Casey! To those of you that think it’s a sin, maybe “your” god thinks it’s a sin, but that’s not everyone’s god. Your religion is your own, but human rights belong to everyone.

Obama did not choose to pick a fight with Bush. The media made it an issue, and Obama had to address it so as not to confuse Jewish voters.

Thousands of gay Californians are going to lose there domestic partmership benifits. No marriage license then no benefits, just like straights. Many gays are not going to get married because of medical liabilities, but will lose there benfits. Also, this is a boon for divorce lawyers. Wecome to our world!

Why do people care so much with how other people live their lives?? Worry about yours, cause life is to short to be running around concerned with what the next man or woman is doing. And being gay is not a sin, cause if it was God wouldn’t of made me this way. I knew i was gay before i hit the third grade — how is that a choice?? God loves us all equally.

“McCain has contradicted himself more than any politician I’ve ever seen. Is there ANY issue that he has not changed his mind (or “shifted course” on???”

No kidding. He needs to be called on his constant flip flopping.

Bush is just making a last ditch attempt to influence the American People, I wonder why no has tried to impeach him for all of his lies.

Does President Bush think he can use his “magic wand” and just whip up peace between Israel and Iran. NO. deplomacy is needed, for heaven sake!

No! We should not just get over it. Calling a women sweetie shows a lot about the man. He must call women this regularly. He stated that it is a bad habit of his. I think its a look at his value of women.

very well said Claire!

Bad timing, great decision… this will change the elections completely. The Republicans now have a hook into their base. This will undoubtedly lead to more calls for a constitutional amendment.

It is a cinch that John Edwards just became Barrack Obama’s best friend…

Honestly Claire I think that a lot of people are bothered by this because they see it as being wrong in God’s eyes. But I think that is why seperation of church and state exsist. Not everyone is a Christian.

Chuck, how can Bush interpret what Obama believes? Let’s just attack our enemies first and talk later, it has worked so well to this point.

Reshka, it would give them the impression that everyone has the right to be loved and their love acknowledged. My 8 y/o saw two men in a commitment ceremony on a show about weddings. When he asked about it, I was honest and it didn’t phase him in the least.

Genevieve, I wish Obama had called me sweetie. Hillary calls people dear and sweetie on the campaign trail. George Bush says darling from time to time. These are term of endearment. Ya’ll just like Obama so much you follow his every word, sweetie.

Does anyone actually believe McCain when he says that he isn’t following the democrats? He made it painfully clear that he had no plans on bringing our troops home any time soon earlier in the campaign.

Chuck in Alabama,
I agree with you……… he does.

Stephanie, if lying were an impeachable offense, every president would have been impeached.

This is one of the happiest days for many people’s lives. I’m a gay Christian who is excited about the possibility of having a marriage even if not everyone in my faith agrees with it. When you shared the part about the couple who had been together for 55 years it brought tears to my eyes. I am very pleased by this news and I think with time people will learn how to accept this.

Not all women think it is horrible to be called sweetie or hon

Well said, Phil in Illinois!

Anderson, is the Chinese government accepting foreign aid at this time?

Terrible to think how many people have been alive for days under the rubble but eventually perished because they couldn’t be freed.

the “sweetie” nickname did disturb me as being sort of condescending …

First of all, what bothers me the most is that couples will live together before they are married just like husband and wife for years before they decide to get married! That just changes the whole meaning of marriage!

I actually think living together before marriage is a smart idea for some couples. Might prevent divorce or other nasty future battles in the future.

I also think many people (especially men) pretend to be something they are not and when one is living with that person, it’s harder to do.

God my heart just breaks for the people in China. Once to have been to a place it gets in you so this is so hard for me to watch

These pictures are so sad. Makes me feel bad about all the arguments previously discussed on this blog.

Greg, have you ever been to the south? People called people ( regardless of their sex) sweetie, honey, baby…all the time. It says nothing about how they value others. I think that is reaching….a non issue.

In a work situation, I surely wouldn’t want to be called “sweetie” especially from an acquaintance. However, to be called “sweetie” by good friends and family is no big deal. It’s not the worst thing to be called.

Yvonne. Its about time we have a president we actually like and believe in enough to follow.

This report from China is heartbreaking…tihs is now the third time i have seen it and it leaves me heartbroken each time

The Bush foreign policy has not worked. There are more terrorists now than ever.

These pictures from China are horrifying and sad. As a person living in California, the threat of a huge quake is always in the back of my mind. I feel so bad for the people in China who have lost so much.

I watched Bill Neely’s report earlier and I have to say I was so stunned and in such disbelief, I had to watch it four times today. I just can’t imagine.

This whole issue of how buildings are being constructed in China has always made me afraid of visitng there (and staying in a hotel or just going in and out of “modern” buildings.) There simple is no check and balance system to oversee construction, that I can see. This is just dreadful, shameful, and frightening.

i agree, minou…and hate to think about it

MIchelle, the only reason he apologized is because he was called out on it.

Minou,
I’m not talking about rights here. Just talking about the issue of being “afraid of marriage”. Just to make it clear, I don’t disrespect gays, the lifestyle is considered a sin in my religion. If you think of yourself as open-minded then try to show respect for those who believe that that is God’s word. Just for the record I’m not Christian. Not that there is anything wrong with that.

This is unbelievably horrible! It may sound naive, but don’t they have inspectors for these buildings?

Wow! that is so bad in china! many buildings so damaged, so sad! Please tell china to say my hearts go to China people, I am praying for China.

That was an excellent report… Left me speechless. My heart goes out to all those in China, right now.

Obama needs to be more aware of peoples sensitivities… okay… he acknowledged that and personally apologized to the woman… so what’s the big deal again?

What is the record for finding someone buried alive? Time has to be running out fast for anyone still alive.

Chuck in Alabama: I agree with you on Bush and Obama’s foreign policy and I believe that the Republicans have hit a nerve with this issue. The Obama supporters and the Democrats know this can be trouble for them and that is why they are being so vocal about it now.

Oh my God! When you said they would be hard to look at, I thought you were just being extra cautious. You were right, they are very hard to look at. And I thought they were disturbing from a distance;all the large chunks of cement, splintered wood, and knowing there were people in those buildings.

It must have been hard deciding whether or not to show those images up close. There are too many catastrophic events occurring. If it is a result of global warming, we need to fix it….fast!

Yeah, I would love to be called sweetie by Barack,too. I think it’s a term of endearment, not a sexist thing for him.
All people in this country are created equal and should have the right to be married, period.

I hate to see natural disasters. But, I am glad we can actually see people trying to help in this tragedy.

hey erica

i agree with you…..i can barly hold back a tear…..with kids get killed like this in a school………heartbreaking

I’m fighting back the tears when I see how China has been destroyed! My heart goes out to the families…those poor helpless children…

Jo Ann – many of the building in China (especially small villages) are extremely old so there regulations were not the same as they would be if the buildings were built now

The blessings of all Americans go out to those in China.

I don’t find the “sweetie” term an insult, but that word coming out of Obama’s mouth was condescending- considering his huge hairflip over being called “boy.”

What a cruel thing to do to a young girl.

It made me smile, it made me angry, it made me sad, it made me think, it engaged me, it made me count my blessings. It was a great AC 360. program. We’ll meet again tomorrow. Good night AC & team and fellow bloggers.

Wanting to protect marriage between a man and woman doesn’t make you hateful. A lot of people out there believe that it’s God’s word ; therefore they believe strongly in one man and one woman.

I’m happy to see that the myspace hoax mother is getting some kind of punishment. Its disgusting what she did.

I’ve been stalked online by hostile women before. People can get nasty when they think they are protected by anonymity.

Dude, was that Buzz Lightyear?!

i think Bill Neely’s report is one of the most powerful pieces ive seen in recent years. The pain those families are going through. it is so, so terrible.

Bush& McSame are crazy!!! Barack is going to smack them down when it comes to forign pollicy!!!!

Great show tonight Anderson! Very interesting.

Megan O: Thanks, I understand that, but you would think that they would be required to bring them up to standards especially in buildings that housed their children.

Thank you Claire. You made some good points as well.

seeing those children buried in the rubble, i just want to start getting them out! why do we feel it so much more when it is a child, in this case, so many of them. my heart is breaking for all those in china.

Good night Anderson! Great show and blog tonight!

interesting show tonight, anderson & erica.

Sure beats taking the subway!

I saw the Swiss rocket man earlier on another news program and had the feeling that Anderson would think it was cool and it would end up on the shot.

Good Thursday evening. Wii…Bye Anderson, Erica and all.

lol, wii Anderson!

A lot of emotion flowing tonight! Great show Andy. Good night and see you tomorrow!

Anderson, I think somebody needs to buy you a WII. You’d love that ‘new fangled’ toy that all the kids are playing with.

I have an Atari if you need one, Anderson

Night All. Good Blog, Great Show!

LOL Anderson! (on the Wii) Oh too funny. I didn’t know how to pronounce it either. I always get it wrong.

good nite every1
see you all here tom I hope

Anderson, do a reporter’s notebook from the “rocketman” angle. Glad to see Anderson and Erica laughing tonight.

Good discussion on the blog. Nite.

Night Y’all!

Really good show and discussion tonight! Have a good night everyone.

Erica & 360 producers – you all should get a wii for Anderson for his birthday.

The wah-ee, anderson? great show tonight, get some sleep

Goodnight all, great show, moving in many ways.

Good night Anderson, Erica, Bloggers! (all!)
See you tomorrow night! have a good night!

WOW! This has truly been enlightening, supportive, and reaffirming tonight. Thank you everyone for your honesty and thank you Anderson, Erica, and 360 for taking on the controversial topics in such a professional manner. I’m so grateful I discovered 360 almost a year ago–you guys make a difference.

Oh Anderson, you just made us crack up! Thanks for some levity!

The Y? Oh, Anderson! You have got to get out more!

It’s a bird! It’s a plane! Nope,it’s a guy who’s tired of being late for work!

anderson, your missing out on the wii.

Goodnight everyone! Very good show tonight.