Although Proposition 8 passed in California last year, setting back the gay marriage cause, the legal wheels are still turning to argue against the measure. On Wednesday, Chief Judge Vaughn Walker of the U.S. District Court refused to stop a challenge to Proposition 8, dismissing the argument that (straight) marriage and procreation are fundamentally linked. — KA

San Jose Mercury News:

The judge seemed particularly unpersuaded by Proposition 8 attorney Charles Cooper’s argument that the state can outlaw same-sex marriage because of the traditional definition of marriage and its purpose of procreation.

“Procreation doesn’t require marriage,” Walker noted at one point.

The judge’s decision sets the stage for a January trial, which will allow same-sex marriage advocates to argue that Proposition 8 violates the equal protection rights of gay couples because it denies them the equal right to marry.

Read more

Dig, Root, Grow

This year, we’re all on shaky ground, and the need for independent journalism has never been greater. A new administration is openly attacking free press — and the stakes couldn’t be higher.

Your support is more than a donation. It helps us dig deeper into hidden truths, root out corruption and misinformation, and grow an informed, resilient community.

Independent journalism like Truthdig doesn't just report the news — it helps cultivate a better future.

Your tax-deductible gift powers fearless reporting and uncompromising analysis. Together, we can protect democracy and expose the stories that must be told.

This spring, stand with our journalists.

Dig. Root. Grow. Cultivate a better future.

Donate today.

SUPPORT TRUTHDIG