WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senator Tom Harkin (D-IA) issued the following statement on marriage equality in response to the President’s announcement yesterday.  An audio recording of Senator Harkin’s comments on the topic from his weekly Iowa media call can be found here.

“At the heart of this issue is expanding equality under the Constitution for all Americans.  Iowa was at the forefront of this issue, just as our state has been on so many civil rights issues, and I am proud of the Iowa Supreme Court for taking a stand more than three years ago.  In fact, Justice Cady’s opinion was one of the finest judicial opinions I have ever read.

“President Obama’s thinking has evolved on this issue over time, just as my own thinking has evolved.  He did the right thing – the courageous thing – and I commend him.  His announcement is just another step in the march towards greater equality for all Americans.”