WASHINGTON — U.S. Sen. Cory Booker of New Jersey took to the Senate floor on Monday to underscore the importance of nationwide marriage marriage equality, and to tell the story of Jim Obergefell, lead plaintiff in one of six cases to be heard by the U.S. Supreme Court.
An Ohio resident, Obergefell’s longtime partner John Arthur died from ALS just three months after they married. But Obergefell remains listed as single on his death certificate.
Booker talks about the couple’s nearly 20-year relationship, the challenges they faced, their wedding ceremony on an airport tarmac in Maryland, a state that recognizes their marriage, and what it says about America today. Obergefell is a plaintiff in the upcoming Supreme Court same-sex marriage case, Obergefell vs. Hodges.
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“Their story is heartbreaking. It is inspiring. But unfortunately, in our nation it is all too common,” said Booker.
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Booker is often mentioned as a possible running mate to Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton.
The Supreme Court will hear oral arguments in the cases on April 28.
