Ban Gay Marriage - California

Thousands of same-sex couples have tied the knot in California since May, when the State Supreme Court ruled that barring gay marriage was unconstitutional. In recent weeks, gay couples have been rushing to get married before voters weigh in on Proposition 8, which would amend the state's constitution to define marriage as a union between a man and a woman. The proposition is backed by conservative religious groups, and supporters expect to see a boost for their cause from sermons. An Oct. 31 poll showed 49% opposed to the amendment, 44% in favor of it and 7% undecided. (Simliar measures are on the ballot in Arizona and Florida.) A defeat of Prop 8 would be a huge victory for gay rights advocates, who've seen constitutional amendments to ban gay marriage pass in about half of U.S. states.