The Latest Attack on Marriage Equality: Why Idaho Republicans Are on the Wrong Side of History—Again
Once again, some lawmakers are using their power not to solve pressing issues or unite communities but to divide and discriminate. This time, Idaho Republicans have introduced House Joint Memorial 1, a resolution urging the U.S. Supreme Court to overturn Obergefell v. Hodges, the landmark 2015 decision that granted marriage equality nationwide. The resolution claims that marriage laws should be decided by states, arguing for a “natural definition” of marriage as between one man and one woman. This proposal, while legally non-binding, is as dangerous as it is misguided. Here’s why.
Bigotry Disguised as Governance
First, let’s call this resolution what it is: a blatant attempt to roll back LGBTQ+ rights under the guise of “state sovereignty.” The language of “natural definition” is nothing more than coded bigotry, reminiscent of past arguments against interracial marriage or integrated schools. History has shown us time and again that discrimination never holds up in the long run. Laws built on prejudice are eventually dismantled—but not before causing irreparable harm to the lives of real people.
The Social Cost of Reversing Marriage Equality
Marriage equality is about more than legal benefits; it’s about recognizing the dignity and humanity of LGBTQ+ people. Denying that recognition harms families, stigmatizes love, and sends a clear message to queer individuals: You are less than. This rejection breeds isolation and mental health struggles, particularly among LGBTQ+ youth who are already disproportionately affected by suicide and depression.
When governments institutionalize bigotry, it ripples outward. Discrimination becomes normalized, emboldening hate crimes and fostering environments where intolerance thrives. Is this the legacy Idaho lawmakers want to leave?
The Economic Case for Marriage Equality
The economic arguments for marriage equality are just as compelling. A study by the Williams Institute found that marriage equality adds billions to the economy. Same-sex weddings boost local businesses, including florists, caterers, and venues. Guests travel, book hotels, and spend money in communities celebrating love.
Contrast that with the cost of discrimination. Companies increasingly refuse to operate in states with anti-LGBTQ+ laws, citing the difficulty of attracting diverse talent. Remember when North Carolina faced national backlash for its anti-trans bathroom bill? The Associated Press estimated that law would cost the state $3.76 billion in lost business over 12 years (https://apnews.com/article/2d7cc6f2241e4daaa49a219861c31f5c). States like Idaho risk similar economic fallout if they continue down this path.
Public Opinion Is Clear
Here’s the kicker: Americans overwhelmingly support marriage equality. A 2024 Gallup survey found that 69% of Americans believe same-sex marriages should be legally valid (https://news.gallup.com/poll/354638/approval-sex-marriage-new-high.aspx). That’s not just Democrats; it’s independents and a growing number of Republicans. Idaho Republicans pushing this resolution are out of step with their constituents and the nation.
A Better Path Forward
Instead of fighting progress, Idaho lawmakers could focus on policies that unite and uplift their communities. Imagine the impact if they devoted this energy to improving schools, addressing the housing crisis, or expanding healthcare access. Instead, they’re choosing the losing side of history, betting on bigotry in a country that’s moved past it.
As Sarah Warbelow of the Human Rights Campaign put it: “This cruel action by Idaho Republicans amounts to nothing more than shouting at the wind” (https://www.advocate.com/politics/idaho-republicans-marriage-equality-challenge). It’s time to stop shouting and start listening—to their constituents, to common sense, and to the arc of history, which, as Martin Luther King Jr. said, bends toward justice.
Tommy Karr 