It didn't take long for CNN to buy into the hype of New York's legalization of same-sex marriage and pose this question: Is it time for marriage equality in America? CNN asked the question on both the 11 a.m. 12 p.m. EDT hours of Newsroom.
The network referred to the words of New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo, who stated that he believes "it is time for marriage equality all across the country." Cuomo signed New York's same-sex marriage bill into law over the weekend.
CNN's Carol Costello made sure to point out "staunch conservatives" who are "on board." A clip played of former Vice President Dick Cheney believing people should be free to "enter into any kind of union they wish." Of course, Costello added that Cheney is in favor of letting the states decide the issue.
She mentioned other prominent "conservatives" who support same-sex marriage, like the wife of Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.) and former President George W. Bush's daughter. Costello did also voice the general opinion of social conservatives against same-sex marriage.
The text of CNN's actual "Talk Back" question was as follows: "Is New York's governor right? Is it time for marriage equality in America?"
A transcript of the segment, which aired on June 27 at 11:04 a.m. EDT, is as follows:
SUZANNE MALVEAUX: Here's your chance to "Talk Back" on one of the big stories of the day. New York passes a law allowing same-sex marriage. And our question: Is it time for marriage equality in America? Is it time for it to be essentially throughout the country? Federal law even? Carol Costello, she's joining us from New York. Hey, Carol. Good to see you.
CAROL COSTELLO, CNN correspondent: Hi, Suzanne. On July 24th, same-sex marriage will be legal in New York, as it is in five other states. It was a bipartisan effort. Yes, four Republican New York State lawmakers voted yes to same-sex marriage. Gay advocates are celebrating and already handing out their roadmap to other states working on same-sex marriage legislation. New York's governor, Andrew Cuomo.
(Video Clip)
Gov. ANDREW CUOMO (D-N.Y.): I believe New York has sent a message to this nation, loud and clear, it is time for marriage equality all across this country.
(End Video Clip)
COSTELLO: Maybe. Nationally, even some staunch Republicans – actually, maybe nationally even some staunch conservatives are on board like Dick Cheney, who has a gay daughter.
(Video Clip)
RICHARD CHENEY, former Vice President of the United States: I think people ought to be free to enter into any kind of union they wish.
(End Video Clip)
COSTELLO: Cheney did add that it's up to each state to decide. Other conservatives are on board, too, like John McCain's wife Cindy, George W. Bush's daughter, Barbara. Advocates say it's a sign young Republicans are much more supportive of this issue. Still, there are plenty people opposed to same-sex marriage. According to Politico, 29 states have enacted some type of constitutional prohibition against same-sex unions. And religious groups like the Catholic Church say New York's vote leaves it worried that both marriage and family will be undermined.
So, the "Talk Back" question today: Is New York's governor right? Is it time for marriage equality in America? Facebook.com/CarolCNN. I'll read your comments later this hour.
