White House on Minn. Ballot Initiative

The White House released a statement condemning Minnesota's ballot initiative -- which could constitutionally ban marriage equality should voters approve it next year -- but did not go as far as advocating same-sex marriage.

The statement, obtained by the Washington Blade, was released by White House spokesman Shin Inouye.

"The President has long opposed divisive and discriminatory efforts to deny rights and benefits to same sex couples or to take such rights away. While he believes this is an issue best addressed by the states, he also believes that committed gay couples should have the same rights and responsibilities afforded to any married couple in this country."

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