According to The Wall Street Journal, both Maine and Maryland will now allow same-sex unions. A similar measure in Washington state is expected to pass even though the count is not completed. In the state of Minnesota, voters declined to approve a constitutional amendment defining marriage as being between a man and a woman.
"We made history here tonight and showed that voters can change their minds," said Matt McTighe, the campaign director of Mainers United for Marriage. "That will serve as something of a signal to other states who have lost marriage fights before at ballot boxes. You can change those minds."
Marylanders for Marriage Equality (MME) also hailed the passage of their ballot initiative which turned in 52 percent in favor of same-sex marriage. "We're sure to feel the ripples of this monumental victory across the country for years to come," said Josh Levin, MME campaign manager.
In Minnesota, 51 percent of voters said they were against a same-sex marriage ban in the state's constitution even though supporters say the amendment is needed in order to prevent the courts or legislature from changing the law in the future.
Supporters of traditional marriage remain determined, saying that a win in strong Democratic states such as Maine and Maryland doesn't prove a shift in national opinion on the issue.
"Winning on your own turf is not a turning point," said Brian Brown, president of the National Organization for Marriage. "The only thing this says is that in deep blue states, gay-marriage advocates can win—barely."
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