First couple splits over constitutional amendment banning gay marriage

A wedding cake featuring two grooms and two brides, symbolizing gay marriage. (AFP/File/Hector Mata) The issue of gay marriage is causing divisions within the Republican Party, including the highest reaches of the White House. The split has been so pronounced that President Bush faces strong opposition within his own administration to a constitutional amendment that would outlaw gay marriage. The split has pitted Mr. Bush against his own wife, first lady Laura Bush. Mrs. Bush has warned that promoting the amendment could backfire against the GOP in congressional races in November. She has suggested that a constitutional amendment would hamper any constructive debate over gay marriage. "Well, I don't think it should be used as a campaign tool, obviously," Mrs. Bush said. "But I do think it's something that people in the United States want to debate. And it requires a lot of sensitivity to talk about the issue, a lot of sensitivity." Curiosos ? Texto completo neste LINK