News (USA)

Previously undecided Ill. lawmaker says he supports gay marriage bill

Previously undecided Ill. lawmaker says he supports gay marriage bill

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — Another undecided lawmaker in Illinois has announced his support for a bill to legalize same-sex marriage.

LaShawn Ford, a Chicago Democrat, said Tuesday a “majority of constituents” in his district support of the legislation, which would make Illinois the 13th state to allow same-sex marriage.

LaShawn Ford
Ford said he received thousands of calls and emails urging his support. He described his decision as “a process.”

Ford joins Chicago Rep. Ken Dunkin as the second House Black Caucus member to publicly back the measure.

Caucus members are being lobbied extensively by both sides. Their support is seen as key to the bill’s passage.

The Senate passed the marriage equality bill on marriage in February. The state House is expected to vote before Friday.

Gov. Pat Quinn supports the measure and has called it one of his top legislative priorities.

Associated Press contributed to this report.
Don't forget to share:

Support vital LGBTQ+ journalism

Reader contributions help keep LGBTQ Nation free, so that queer people get the news they need, with stories that mainstream media often leaves out. Can you contribute today?

Cancel anytime · Proudly LGBTQ+ owned and operated

France’s first same-sex wedding is broadcast to nation

Previous article

Ohio’s Democratic candidate for governor says he supports gay marriage

Next article