Governor Makes Gay Marriage Legal in Maryland

Good show, governor. On Thursday, Maryland joined the growing list of states to make same-sex marriage legal, and Gov. Martin O’Malley made it a memorable occasion, complete with an after-party at his place. –KA

The Baltimore Sun:

“The way forward is always found through greater respect for the equal rights of all,” said O’Malley, giving brief remarks before signing the legislation. “If there is a thread that unites all of our work here together, it is the thread of human dignity. … Let’s sign the bill.”

The ceremony was held in a marble hallway on the first floor of the State House, with O’Malley and the General Assembly’s presiding officers seated before a staircase packed with supportive lawmakers and advocates.

Senate President Thomas V. Mike Miller gave the crowd a thumbs-up. House Speaker Michael E. Busch beamed and pointed to supporters. After signing, all three handed out black pens — one of the first going to [Delegate] Maggie McIntosh, the first openly gay Maryland lawmaker.

O’Malley invited the crowd to join him “across the street” in the governor’s mansion for a reception open to the public.

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