Gov. Corbett Says He Won't Appeal Ruling That Legalized Same-Sex Marriage
By Tony Romeo and Syma Chowdhry
HARRISBURG, Pa. (CBS) -- One day after a federal judge in Philadelphia struck down Pennsylvania's ban on same-sex marriages (see related story), Governor Tom Corbett announced that he is giving up his fight to restore the state's "Defense of Marriage" law.
This afternoon, Corbett's press office released a statement saying that Gov. Corbett has "thoroughly reviewed Judge Jones' opinion" and has concluded that the case is extremely unlikely to succeed on appeal.
Therefore, the governor says, he has decided not to appeal the judge's decision.
Pamela Williams can't hold back her excitement after applying for a marriage license.
She and her partner Tylanda Whitney have been together for 18 years and have two children.
They were in the process of applying for a marriage license when they heard that Governor Corbett will not appeal.
However, Corbett did say that as a Roman Catholic, he continues to maintain his belief that marriage can be only between a man and a woman, but that his duties as governor require that he follow the laws as interpreted by the courts and that he make a judgement as to the likelihood of a successful appeal.
He also said that "the court has spoken," and he'll ensure that his administration follows the provisions of the judge's order for all parties.
Some couples say his decision not to appeal could be more of a political move, saying "election year."
Former Governor Ed Rendell said, "I think he would be making a mistake if he appealed."
In the meantime, couples are excited to plan a wedding.
Pamela is a pastor and says to those who bring religion into the same-sex marriage issue,"Love is absolutely love and love is God. And if we all love God, then we all ought to love each other and not question who we love."
