Those Spooky Mormons!

I have a gay cousin in California. Because both sides of the Proposition 8 debate refuse to directly speak to its express terms, instead using oblique references to "fundamental rights," "preservation of marriage" and "our children's future" in their advertisements, my cousin wanted me to shine the light on this important proposal - far too important to befuddle and stupefy voters into a tainted victory.

From my cousin's voter information guide issued by California Secretary of State Debra Bowen. Here is the official "background":

"In March 2000, California voters passed Proposition 22 to specify in state law that only marriage between a man and a woman is valid or recognized in California. In May 2008, the California Supreme Court ruled that the statute enacted by Proposition 22 and other statutes that limit marriage to a relationship between a man and a woman violated the equal protection clause of the California Constitution. It also held that individuals of the same sex have the right to marry under the California Constitution. As a result of the ruling, marriage between individuals of the same sex is currently valid or recognized in the state."

Here is the official Proposition 8 "proposal":

"This measure amends the California Constitution to specify that only marriage between a man and a woman is valid or recognized in California. As a result, notwithstanding the California Supreme Court ruling of May 2008, marriage would be limited to individuals of the opposite sex, and individuals of the same sex would not have the right to marry in California."

This is a constitutional initiative - meaning Proposition 8 amends the California Constitution and eliminates the right of same-sex couples to marry. There is no judicial bypass. Heterosexual marriage becomes enmeshed into the fabric of state law.

I would vote "no" on Prop. 8 if given the opportunity. Why? Because I don't want the spooky Mormons rummaging around in my underwear draw when they happen upon their next divine mandate.