House Dems Tweet Jubilation, GOP Silent After DOMA Struck Down
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JOSEP LAGO/AFP/Getty Images(WASHINGTON) — Democrats in the House of Representatives reacted with jubilation to the Supreme Court’s decision to strike down the Defense of Marriage Act, but the reaction from Republicans was almost entirely muted.
Scores of Democrats tweeted their excitement and agreement with the Court when the decision was announced.
@NancyPelosi: Today, the Supreme Court bent the arc of history once again toward justice, discarding the defenseless #DOMA into the dustbin of history.
House Speaker John Boehner held a previously scheduled news conference at the Capitol, but when he was asked to react to the Courts decision, he punted.
“I heard the decision. I’ve not had a chance to read it. Once we’ve had a chance to read it, I’ll have a response for you,” Boehner, R-Ohio, said. “After I’ve read the decision, we’ll have something for you.”
Boehner is expected to hold his weekly news conference Thursday at 11:30 a.m.
Rep. Mark Pocan, @RepMarkPocan, one of a handful of openly gay people serving in Congress and the only one who is married (in Canada), called the decision a tremendous victory for all loving, committed couples.
“Outside #SCOTUS–there are rainbow tears in the crowd, and dancing in the streets. #DOMA #LGBT,” Pocan, D-Wis., added.
Another homosexual serving in Congress, Rep. David Cicilline, D-R.I., called it a sweeping victory for fairness, equality and millions of American families.
West Virginia Republican David McKinley asked his followers what they think about the decision. “@RepMcKinley What do you think of the Supreme Court’s decision to strike down the Defense of Marriage Act?”
Even Rep. Ileana Ros Lehtinen, one Republican who has come out in support of marriage equality, has taken to Twitter, but not to tweet about the Supreme Court rulings. “NOW: @HFACRepublicans hrng on improving US ability 2 support freedom + democracy globally thru radio/TV @BBGgov http://1.usa.gov/183kD46”
Other Democrats tweeted pictures of themselves on the steps of the Supreme Court, among the celebration.
“So proud to be standing outside to hear #DOMA overturned! http://yfrog.com/oe71kkej,” tweeted Rep. Jan Schakowsky, D-Ill.
“Mobs of people cheering the #DOMA decision outside @USSupremeCourt #SCOTUS pic.twitter.com/ysIr1AG11y,” added Rep. Jackie Speier, D-Calif.
Still more Democrats touted their votes against DOMA in 1996, claiming vindication from the decision. “#DOMA is gone. I voted against it in 1996, I was proud to do so then. Thrilled now. #equalrights #LGBT,” tweeted Rep. Eliot Engel, a 13-term Democrat from New York.
“Ive always believed #DOMA was unconstitutional since I voted against it in 96. This is a great day for #equality,” Rep. Frank Pallone, a 14-term Democrat, tweeted.
“I fought to stop DOMA in 96 bc it was unconstitutional & discriminatory. Took too long, today #SCOTUS was right pic.twitter.com/bulBO8k2vy,” added Rep. Peter DeFazio, D-Ore.
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