WASHINGTON--San Francisco marriage licenses to same-sex couples is influencing President Bush's decision to back a constitutional marriage amendment, the Baptist Press reports.
"I strongly believe that marriage should be defined as between a man and a woman," he told reporters. "I am troubled by activist judges who are defining marriage.
"I have watched carefully what's happened in California where licenses were being issued even though the law states otherwise. I have consistently stated that ... I support law to protect marriage between a man and a woman. And obviously, these events are influencing my decision."
The country is still divided over the issue. A recent Gallup poll revealed 53 percent favor an amendment while 44 percent oppose it.
But it may come down to a divided public to decide the issue.
"Marriage ought to be defined by the people, not the courts," Bush said.
