''While I've long been for extending every benefit of marriage to same-sex couples, I have in the past drawn a distinction between a marriage-like status ("civil unions") and full marriage rights. The reason was simple: I was raised to believe that marriage is between a man and a woman.... But the fact that I was raised a certain way just isn't a good enough reason to stand in the way of fairness anymore.... But I am also proud to now count myself among the many elected officials, advocates, and ordinary citizens who support full marriage equality for same-sex couples.''

Senator Chris Dodd of Connecticut in a public opinion piece reprinted on his official government website explaining his change of heart toward support for gay marriage. (Dodd.Senate.gov)