Senate halts marriage amendment

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The Senate yesterday killed a constitutional amendment that would have defined marriage as the union of one man and one woman, dealing a setback to President Bush and Republican leaders, who had pushed the proposal forward to energize their base.

Although the defeat wasn't a surprise, the 49-48 procedural vote fell far short of the 60 votes needed to force an up-or-down vote on the measure. Seven Republicans joined Democrats to block it, and two Democrats -- both facing re-election in November -- supported it.

The White House and Republican leaders, facing sagging poll numbers and a restless Republican base, had insisted on the measure, which is a top goal of social conservative groups. Constitutional amendments require a two-thirds vote to pass.

Yesterday, amendment supporters tried to put a positive spin on the vote, saying they would keep advocating the measure until it is approved, because courts are forcing same-sex "marriage" onto states, despite overwhelming public opposition.

"History has shown us that it can take several tries before an amendment builds the two-thirds support it needs in both houses of Congress," Mr. Bush said after the defeat. "My position on this issue is clear: Marriage is the most fundamental institution of our society, and it should not be redefined by activist judges. The people must be heard on this issue."

"We must continue fighting to ensure the Constitution is amended by the will of the people rather than by judicial activism," said Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist.

The House is expected to vote on the measure soon.

Democrats said that the amendment is all about the November elections and that Congress should be considering more pressing problems.

"This week's debate underscores the misplaced priorities of the Bush Republicans," said Senate Minority Leader Harry Reid, Nevada Democrat.

The amendment picked up one vote of support from last time around. In July 2004, 48 senators supported it and 50 opposed it.