Way to go, Judge Hanson. Let's hope he survives his next election; fundies have long memories about this sort of thing. But nonetheless, Iowa has an important opportunity here and we'll see if a Heartland state can truly support the concept behind the 14th and other amendments. 'Equal under the law' is really simple, when you get down to it.

Anyway, to me this is a lot like the drug legalization issue: to get to the moderates and fence sitters, argue the money. Gay marriage means money for Iowa. There is a huge, unsung population of bears and cubs, Wedgewood collectors and Judy Garland fans, working class dykes and fags, all of whom would love nothing more than to have a wholesome, churchie, Heartland wedding. Not the flashy, sparkling Queers of the tribe of Har, mind you. But the regular folks, like the one you have a beer with twice a week after work and would never guess lives with another man. The quiet lesbian couple who are the pillar of small town activism and community building. That police officer in your church. Etc.

Less Fabulous Gay America is and has been the community's activist heart, and this victory proves it. Iowa would do well to celebrate these people, and take lots and lots of their money. Knowing how Heartland economies really suck right now, I hope the tourism people look at the numbers and make the jump. Goddess knows if I have to pay for another dress for a ceremony, I'd like to avoid taking out a mortgage to afford it, because the brides insist I blend in with Costal fashion standards.