Residents Weigh in on Presidential Remarks
By: Shayla Patrick
Updated: May 10, 2012
JOPLIN, MO - President Obama voiced his support of gay marriage yesterday, sparking debates across the country, including the four states. The announcement made him the first president to support same sex marriages.
Vice President Joe Biden also endorsed them last weekend. Despite the support, North Carolina voters approved a ban on same sex marriage earlier this week. Today we spoke with some area religious leaders, who don't agree with the president's stance.
"I'm sorry that he made that announcement. What our country needs right now is the strength and rebuilding, and coming together. And that is done through a family, through a mother and a father," said Gary Shaw, Executive Administrator at Central Christian Center.
We also spoke with people who support the president's remarks and see it as a sign the united states is moving towards a more progressive way of thinking.
"It doesn't really bother me because everybody will find love in different ways. So if gay people want to mary each other, then it is all right with me," said Andre Edward, Student at Missouri Southern State University.
A common sentiment voiced by people on both sides of this issue is this announcement will be a major factor in the upcoming presidential election.
