Florida Marriage Ban in "Final Moments"

[Alnitak]

One Florida paper is already calling the outcome: Florida's ban on same sex marriage will soon be at an end.

Same-sex marriage ban in its final moments

Here's a safe prediction: Florida's same-sex marriage ban is going down.

The end could come soon if a Miami-Dade County judge sides with six couples who claim that the ban is unconstitutional.

...

In her [questioning], Zabel rejected many arguments on which same-sex marriage opponents base their flimsy case.

A second lawsuit filed in Key West is due to be heard on Monday.

All eyes on Keys same-sex marriage case

Judge Luis Garcia is scheduled to hear the case Monday at 9:30 a.m. at the Plantation Key courthouse. If he rules in favor of Huntsman and Jones, the decision could pave the way for other gay and lesbian couples to marry in Florida.

Rulings in both cases are expected to be returned within a few weeks, this month even. Florida would join 17 other states having their bans struck down in the last year, 13 of which have been stayed. Since these are state court cases, the Attorney General Pam Bondi would have the option of appealing to the Florida Supreme Court.

If Bondi declines to take further action, the Tampa Tribune is already expecting a flood of summer weddings (which tend to be pretty hot in central Florida). Florida is one of the largest states in America in both size and population, which is nearly 20 million. Any unstayed ruling, even if just a few days, is bound to result in thousands cramming the clerks' offices for licenses.


Same-sex wedding boom expected if Florida's ban falls

If the ban is overturned, say those who work in the local wedding industry, the economic boost would be immediate.

...

Tourist bureaus on both sides of the bay are preparing for the day same-sex marriages are allowed in Florida.

...

Broward County's Westin Diplomat Resort & Spa is so confident the same-sex marriage ban will be lifted that it has already begun marketing to same-sex couples...

...

“If the ban is lifted, I will more heavily promote our services,” [Rev. Pressley Sutherland] said. “And I think I will be overwhelmed. But that's a good thing. It is exciting to me that so many families will be able to get that legal recognition that they want.”

[Maklaar13]

Let's hope it goes in our favor. Considering all the precedents already in place calling the ban unconstitutional one would expect a similar decision in Florida. We will see.

[The Fly]

The first couple married in Florida should do it at Anita Bryant's grave site.....and watch the sod move, as that bitch turns over.

[Alnitak]

The first couple married in Florida should do it at Anita Bryant's grave site.....and watch the sod move, as that bitch turns over.

It was my understanding that she returned to Oklahoma after her career blew up, but her divorced husband, over whom the Evangelicals shunned Anita, did indeed bite the dust a few years ago. Now she is a Kate Mulgrew lookalike, and not much else.

[JackinSea]

Biondi is a right-wing loon, so she'll defend this as far as she possibly can. NO marriages until the state supreme court says so.

[Ninja108]

Bondi is going to drag this out as long as she can but I do expect Judge Zabel to rule in our favor.
She made it clear she didn't buy any of the arguments the anti-side was selling so yes, the Florida ban is on its last legs.

[Alnitak]

Bondi is going to drag this out as long as she can but I do expect Judge Zabel to rule in our favor.
She made it clear she didn't buy any of the arguments the anti-side was selling so yes, the Florida ban is on its last legs.

These windbags are mad to put this issue in front during the heat of election season.

[rareboy]

Bondi is going to be relying on the support of the conservative catholics and fundie evangelicals in Fla.

I think she's in for a surprise.

Time for homos to marry in the drooping penis of the US.

[Ninja108]

These windbags are mad to put this issue in front during the heat of election season.

It's why Corbett didn't appeal marriage equality and Walker is doing the same as well as Sandavol and Martinez in NV and NM respectively.
They see which way the wind is blowing on this issue.
PLus, 2012 election night in Minnesota where the Republican push for a ban cost the party control of both chambers is something Republicans in Blue and Purple states are keenly aware of.

[Alnitak]

It's why Corbett didn't appeal marriage equality and Walker is doing the same as well as Sandavol and Martinez in NV and NM respectively.
They see which way the wind is blowing on this issue.
PLus, 2012 election night in Minnesota where the Republican push for a ban cost the party control of both chambers is something Republicans in Blue and Purple states are keenly aware of.

They need a reminder

[Ninja108]

They need a reminder

Indeed they do. I really hope our base turns out this fall, otherwise we'll see these "moderate" Republicans quickly go anti-gay again.

[Alnitak]

Indeed they do. I really hope our base turns out this fall, otherwise we'll see these "moderate" Republicans quickly go anti-gay again.

It probably won't. The Hobby Lobby decision will soon be forgotten.

[JackinSea]

The other side is a bit demoralized in that they hate their leadership as squishes and wimps, and Obama only has another two years left to go. This year's going to be an all-politics-is-local one focused on each state's candidates, rather than much of a nation trend/wave/message/consensus. If Obama's low poll numbers were truly indicative of a Republican rout, FL Gov, GA and KY Sen, KS Gov would all be Safe R races.

[Ninja108]

It probably won't. The Hobby Lobby decision will soon be forgotten.

Indeed it will be, same with the VRA and "Religious Freedom" bills.
Sad to say but our base has a very short memory and doesn't seem to realize how important elections are, for judges if nothing else.
On the plus side, we will be getting another ally on the 3rd circuit confirmed so at least Obama is able to put more liberal judges on the bench now due to the nuclear option before the fall elections. And she's younger too, something else Democrats are starting to pick up.
YOu want to have a long lasting impact on the judiciary?
Put younger judges on, that is something the Republicans figured out long ago and Democrats now are figuring out.

[scream4ever]

It probably won't. The Hobby Lobby decision will soon be forgotten.

Like our side has forgotten Citizens United?

[Alnitak]

Like our side has forgotten Citizens United?

But will it have the get off the couch effect? Maybe not.

[scream4ever]

But will it have the get off the couch effect? Maybe not.

^^^Exactly

[Ninja108]

But will it have the get off the couch effect? Maybe not.

If what the Republicans have done since 2010 won't get our side off the couch, then they we deserve what we get.

[Alnitak]

If what the Republicans have done since 2010 won't get our side off the couch, then they we deserve what we get.

Quoted for truth.

[Ninja108]

Looked up the Florida Supreme Court and it looks like it could go either way for us.
There are three Democrats and four Republicans, two Moderates and two Conservatives.
If the moderates are like Judges Heyburn, Friedman, Jones and Holmes (all Republican judges) then we're in luck.
If not, then we'll be in trouble. Here's hoping it's 4-3 or 5-2 in our favor.

[scream4ever]

Looked up the Florida Supreme Court and it looks like it could go either way for us.
There are three Democrats and four Republicans, two Moderates and two Conservatives.
If the moderates are like Judges Heyburn, Friedman, Jones and Holmes (all Republican judges) then we're in luck.
If not, then we'll be in trouble. Here's hoping it's 4-3 or 5-2 in our favor.

I'm confident they'll rule in our favor in the end. You're talking about a stay correct?

[Ninja108]

I'm confident they'll rule in our favor in the end. You're talking about a stay correct?

The whole kit and kaboodle. If they refuse to grant a stay like in NJ or the one judge that eventually ruled in our favor in the 10th circuit, it could be a tip off to how they will rule eventually.

[scream4ever]

The whole kit and kaboodle. If they refuse to grant a stay like in NJ or the one judge that eventually ruled in our favor in the 10th circuit, it could be a tip off to how they will rule eventually.

Exactly. The same could happen in Colorado this week (I'd say it's more likely to happen there then Florida honestly).

[Ninja108]

Exactly. The same could happen in Colorado this week (I'd say it's more likely to happen there then Florida honestly).

I agree with you on CO. FL and AR politics are sadly more likely to be in play.

[scream4ever]

I agree with you on CO. FL and AR politics are sadly more likely to be in play.

Indeed. Remember though that no matter what happens, it will likely be resolved by said state supreme courts by the end of the year.

[Alnitak]

Hearing in Key West today is underway.

Gay Key West bartenders to ask Monroe County Circuit Judge Luis Garcia: Let us marry Monday

Two gay Key West bartenders are prepared to get married Monday in a Plantation Key courthouse if Monroe County Circuit Judge Luis Garcia strikes Florida’s same-sex marriage ban.

Unfortunately, no live video or tweeting was allowed, because you know Florida courts like their business done in secret.

[Ninja108]

Hearing in Key West today is underway.

Gay Key West bartenders to ask Monroe County Circuit Judge Luis Garcia: Let us marry Monday



Unfortunately, no live video or tweeting was allowed, because you know Florida courts like their business done in secret.

Different judges have different rules it appears.

[Ninja108]

According to Equality Florida's twitter feed, the judge has stated he will NOT rule on the ban today.
Sucks but it isn't a surprise.
No judge has ruled on these bans the same day as the hearing.

[Alnitak]

According to Equality Florida's twitter feed, the judge has stated he will NOT rule on the ban today.
Sucks but it isn't a surprise.
No judge has ruled on these bans the same day as the hearing.

Not on an issue like this. Bench rulings are for things like custody hearings.

[Ninja108]

Not on an issue like this. Bench rulings are for things like custody hearings.

Indeed, I understand our side wanting a same day ruling but no judge has done that, even ones on our side and they likely won't in the future either.

[Alnitak]

Indeed, I understand our side wanting a same day ruling but no judge has done that, even ones on our side and they likely won't in the future either.

Have you seen any reports yet from today's hearing? What did the judge think of the arguments I wonder.

[Ninja108]

Nothing yet, I'm following this https://twitter.com/equalityfl and hoping for updates soon.

[Alnitak]

Great coverage of the case in Key West.

I guess it's so laid back there your attorney can show her bra strap in court

[Ninja108]

Great coverage of the case in Key West.

I guess it's so laid back there your attorney can show her bra strap in court

I noticed that as well. Unprofessional IMO.

[scream4ever]

Honestly I would not have noticed it had it not been pointed out LOL

Meanwhile Staver is calling on Bondi to resign. I'm starting to see more indicators that she'll drop the appeal.

[Ninja108]

Have to say that if the couple in the second lawsuit continue the fight, I hope they find a new lawyer.
Their current one is NOT up to the task at all.

[Alnitak]

It has been two weeks today since Judge Zabel held a hearing in her Miami court. A decision will come down at any moment.

Meanwhile...

New Video: Mayors across Florida speak out for the freedom to marry

[Ninja108]

It has been two weeks today since Judge Zabel held a hearing in her Miami court. A decision will come down at any moment.

Meanwhile...

New Video: Mayors across Florida speak out for the freedom to marry

IF not this week, then certainly next week.
I hope the one bigot from Florida's tweets are saved, they are going to be fun!

[Ninja108]

http://joemygod.blogspot.com/2014/07...#disqus_thread
We're one on our way! One county down, many more to go.

[scream4ever]

Bondi appealed, resulting in an immediate stay of the ruling, however, either party or the 3d District Appeals Court could move that the FL SC resolve this issue promptly, as it is "of great public importance or have a great effect on the proper administration of justice throughout the state[,]" bypassing the appellate level. (Fla R. App. P. 9.125(a)) The parties have 10 days to make this motion.

[Alnitak]

Florida is one of those states with more than a one shot case.

The federal case Brenner v. Scott is pending Judge Hinkle's decision on a preliminary injunction, which may be waiting for direction of the state court cases. The 11th Circuit won't be sympathetic to the state. Active Democratic appointees dominate it 2-1, and one of the Republicans was a Ford appointee (gee whiz), so Bondi is going to find herself cornered, just like every other a-hole Republican.

[Ninja108]

Florida is one of those states with more than a one shot case.

The federal case Brenner v. Scott is pending Judge Hinkle's decision on a preliminary injunction, which may be waiting for direction of the state court cases. The 11th Circuit won't be sympathetic to the state. Active Democratic appointees dominate it 2-1, and one of the Republicans was a Ford appointee (gee whiz), so Bondi is going to find herself cornered, just like every other a-hole Republican.

Here's the only problem with the 11th circuit and some of the "Democrats" on it. Like Obama is being forced to do with a judge that will be getting on the bench next week (Julie Carnes is a Republican), Clinton had to make deals with Republicans about the judges that got on it as they controlled the Senate for six of his eight years.
Many of the Democrats are socially conservative so it is NOT a surefire victory there, one of the reasons I suspect it took a long time for a federal lawsuit to be filed.
And George W's only appointee to this circuit is a surefire no vote so a ruling against us on this court wouldn't shock me at all.

[Alnitak]

Tampa Bay Times puts the squeeze on Bondi:

Florida newspaper: AG Pam Bondi is its ‘Loser of the Week’

Bondi “is becoming the face of opposition to marriage equality. All signs point to the tide of history rolling over Bondi, who is up for re-election in November.”

In other news, Judge Garcia declined to lift an automatic stay imposed on his ruling.

[Ninja108]

[QUOTE=Alnitak;9566047]Tampa Bay Times puts the squeeze on Bondi:

Florida newspaper: AG Pam Bondi is its ‘Loser of the Week’


And rightfully so. Bondi looks like a bigot and a fool and the fact she is twice divorced only makes look more so.
As for the 11th circuit, today the Republican judge Obama was forced to pick as part of a "deal" was confirmed but his original pick is still waiting despite the fact she was nominated earlier.
http://www.ajc.com/news/news/state-r...-appeal/ngkJs/
It sickens me how the head Democrats in the Senate are still making it so Obama and Democrats get screwed on judicial picks.

[JackinSea]

If you've ever seen her "in action", she's like the love child of Michele Bachmann and Ann Coulter.

[Alnitak]

Confusing naming system, the 3rd District will not lift the stay on circuit judge Garcia's ruling.

Fla. appeals court won’t lift stay in same-sex marriage case

The Miami-based 3rd District Court of Appeal on Wednesday refused to invalidate a Monroe County judge’s decision preventing a wedding for Aaron Huntsman and William Lee Jones and other gay couples.

[Ninja108]

Confusing naming system, the 3rd District will not lift the stay on circuit judge Garcia's ruling.

Fla. appeals court won’t lift stay in same-sex marriage case

I'm hoping the other lawsuits pending at the state and federal level will help speed up the lawsuits to where the Florida Supreme Court will simply hear it and bypass the lower ones.

[T-Rexx]

Everything I've been reading on Florida concludes that the appeals process for these cases is likely to take several months. And even then, marriage equality might be stayed in FL until the U.S. Supreme Court (eventually) rules on this.

Once again, we've been stayed out of rights.

[Alnitak]

Everything I've been reading on Florida concludes that the appeals process for these cases is likely to take several months. And even then, marriage equality might be stayed in FL until the U.S. Supreme Court (eventually) rules on this.

Once again, we've been stayed out of rights.

It is frustrating no question but I am confident the Republicans going after these stays are going to live with shame for the rest of their lives and for some of them that will be a long time to come.

[T-Rexx]

It is frustrating no question but I am confident the Republicans going after these stays are going to live with shame for the rest of their lives and for some of them that will be a long time to come.

They seem to be perfectly fine with their decades-long successful obstruction of civil rights. A campaign for which they have been rewarded politically, not punished.

They seem to be perfectly fine with their decades-long obstruction of affordable medical care. A campaign for which they have been rewarded politically, not punished.

They seem to be perfectly fine with preventing millions of Americans from voting.

They seem to be perfectly fine with caring for fewer of the sick.

They seem to be perfectly fine with feeding fewer of the hungry.

I don't think Republicans are capable of shame. Rather, they seem to delight in hurting people. Blacks, women, immigrants, poor people, gays, and non-Christians. If you do not fit their target demographic of rich, white, straight, male, fundamentalist Christians, your concerns about your life in America do not matter. Because you do not matter.