A Compromise on Gay Marriage

A discussion at the Brookings Institute regarding gay marriage was held with participants David Blankenhorn, President of the Institute for American Values, and Jonathan Rauch, author of the book “Gay Marriage: Why It is Good for Gays, Good for Straights and Good for America.”

Blankenhorn and Rauch presented their proposal of legalizing gay marriage. The proposal works as a compromise between the advocates of gay marriage and the religious groups that oppose it.

“Congress would bestow the status of federal civil unions on same-sex marriage and civil unions granted at the state level, thereby conferring upon them most or all of the federal benefits and rights of marriage. But there would be a condition: Washington would recognize only those unions licensed in states with robust religious-conscience exceptions, which provide that religious organizations need not recognize same-sex unions against their will,” Rauch explained.

Blankenhorn further discussed the danger of viewing the different opinions as wrong and using bad faith. He explained that to solve this delicate issue, a compromise is necessary.

Rauch also emphasized the importance of legalizing gay marriage, but leaving the religious groups the possibility to choose for themselves. He referred to this as the compromise, and by enforcing this proposal, civil rights will be protected.

Today at TRNS

Today at Talk Radio News, the Washington Bureau will be covering Vice President Joe Biden’s announcement for funding to be given to Amtrak, a discussion on “A Year After the March 2008 Protests: Is China Promoting Stability in Tibet?,” a news conference on respiratory and immune disorders, a discussion “Iran: Internal Social and Political Dynamics,” a discussion on “Same-Sex Marriage and Religious Liberty: A Reconciliation,” and a book discussion on “Life Equity: Realize your true Value and Pursue Your Passions at Any Stage In Life,” with author Representative Marsha Blackburn, (R-Tenn.).

White House Gaggle

White House Gaggle
Briefer: Dana Perino

President’s Schedule

President Bush had his normal briefings this morning at 8 am. At 1.05 pm, he will participate in a photo op with the 2007 NASCAR Nextel Cup Champion. He has also has a series of private meetings and policy time at 11 am.

White House Press Secretary Dana Perino will brief the press at 12.15 pm today.

Super Tuesday

When asked if the President will stay up and watch the results come in, Perino said that she expects him to do what he usually does, which is watching a little bit of it but not stay up late and watch all the commentary. Perino said: “I think that there are a lot of unknown and fun to watch... Before there is a clear nominee, he is not going to comment on it. “

Russia

Perino was asked if the Administration was aware of the Russian prime minister candidate Mr. Medveded saying that Russia should emulate China in having its business invests in technology in other countries. Perino said that she had not heard those comments but the White House was aware and follow it.

France

Perino was asked if President Bush called the French President Sarkozy to congratulate him on his new marriage. Perino said that they have not spoken, however, the President and Mrs. Bush wish the newly weds well.

Chad

In response to a question on updates on the situation in Chad, Perino directed to the State Department and added that it is a very troubling situation and a lot of work needs to be done. “We remain very concerned. “ In a follow up a question regarding people leaving Darfur and going in to Chad, the refugee problem, and the UN’s request to the US for more assistance; Perino again referred to the State Department. “We have provided a significant amount of equipment and resources to that region, and we call on other countries to act as well,“ Perino said.

Prince Andrew

Perino was asked if the White House has a comment to British Prince Andrew’s statement that President Bush failed to listen to Britain during the Iraq war. Perino declined to comment.

Perino Speech

When asked about the speech she is giving later today at the National Italian-American Foundation, Perino said that she will speak of the President’s compassion agenda, the upcoming trip to Africa, and touch on the two pressing agendas; the economy and the FISA reauthorization.