Republicans Reflect on Gay Marriage 10 Years After Supreme Court Ruling

Ten years after the Supreme Court’s historic Obergefell v. Hodges decision legalized gay marriage across the United States, a number of Republican lawmakers continue to hold fast to the traditional view of marriage as a union between a man and a woman. Yet, in a shifting political landscape, many acknowledge that overturning this landmark ruling is no longer a priority on their legislative agenda.

Speaking on the anniversary of the 2015 decision, Rep. Jodey Arrington of Texas expressed a deeply personal stance. "My belief is that marriage should be between a man and a woman," he stated, emphasizing that this view underpins strong societies and nations. However, he was quick to add a note of respect for differing opinions, saying, "I love my fellow Americans who see it differently, even if I respectfully disagree." As a self-described "rule of law guy," Arrington drew parallels to other pivotal Supreme Court rulings, like the 2022 Dobbs decision overturning Roe v. Wade, noting that while philosophical disagreements persist, the law of the land must be honored.

Other House Republicans echoed this sentiment, balancing personal beliefs with legal acceptance. Rep. Cory Mills of Florida, for instance, rooted his perspective in constitutional and Christian values, asserting that marriage can only be between a man and a woman. Yet, he questioned federal overreach, asking why the government should meddle in personal matters. Similarly, Rep. Michael Rulli of Ohio, a devout Roman Catholic, admitted he doesn’t personally support gay marriage but underscored individual freedom in America, saying, "When you’re over 18, you have a right to choose."

Rep. Rich McCormick of Georgia added a layer of pragmatism, recognizing that not everyone shares Christian values on this issue. Despite his personal stance, he affirmed his adherence to the Supreme Court’s ruling. This recurring theme among Republican voices—personal conviction versus legal reality—highlights a nuanced evolution within the party. While traditional values remain a bedrock for many, there’s a growing acceptance that the fight against same-sex marriage isn’t the hill to die on in today’s political arena.

What’s clear is that a decade after Obergefell, the conversation around gay marriage among conservatives is less about reversal and more about reconciliation—holding firm to belief while navigating a society that’s moved forward. It’s a tightrope walk, but one that reflects broader cultural currents in America today.