Michigan Governor Stays Cautious On Gay Marriage
By DAVID EGGERT
Associated Press
LANSING (AP) - Michigan's Republican Gov. Rick Snyder is treading carefully on the issue of gay marriage after a judge declared the state's ban unconstitutional.
Snyder supported traditional marriage in his 2010 campaign but keeps mostly silent on social issues in favor of focusing on the economy. Since the judge's ruling Friday, his office has deferred to an appeals court expected to weigh in this week.
His detachment exasperates critics who say he should take more of a leadership role, even on an issue he would prefer go away. His dogged neutrality also reflects the challenge for Republican leaders as polls suggests most Americans support same-sex marriage.
Michigan's more conservative attorney general is leading the appeal. Republican Bill Schuette went outside the state and to Canada to find experts to defend the ban.
MORE: Lawyers Oppose Stay, Ask Court To Let Michigan Gay Marriages Resume
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