OLYMPIA, Wash. (AP) — Twenty-three lawmakers in the state Senate are now publicly supporting gay marriage.
Democratic Sen. Rosemary McAuliffe of Bothell said Friday that the legislation is “long overdue.” She had said earlier in the week that she was leaning in favor of support but was unwilling to commit to it.
Her decision means the Senate now needs just two more votes to pass the measure. That’s according to a tally of votes over the past week by The Associated Press. Eight senators are uncommitted, including three conservative Democrats who say they are considering the issue. The House is widely expected to have enough support, and Gov. Chris Gregoire is pushing the proposal.
McAuliffe says an overwhelming number of her constituents have encouraged her to support the gay marriage legislation.
