Republican lawmakers are supporting a bill to protect same-sex marriage rights despite their traditional opposition. The move is seen as a strategic political and personal decision that could help them appeal to younger voters while also avoiding discussions of other controversial issues like inflation and open borders.
Democrats argue in favor of the Respect for Marriage Act, which would require the federal government to recognize same-sex marriages, while Republicans criticize the bill as a political move to delegitimize the Supreme Court.
The House votes on H.R. 8404, a bill to protect same-sex marriage, as 47 Republicans surprisingly vote in favor alongside Democrats. The bill ultimately passes with 267 yays and 157 nays, including a surprising vote from Republican Representative Liz Cheney.
The opposition to LGBTQ+ rights can alienate younger voters and make it difficult for politicians to win over moderate voters in suburban areas. Moreover, being against marriage equality can lead to the candidate losing the support of a generation of voters who view it as an essential human right.