Trenton, NJ – “”If Democrats don’t vote for marriage equality, progressives will walk away…not volunteering, not giving money and we’ll learn how to sit on our hands come election time.”   That was the message today from Steven Goldstein, chairman of Garden State Equality said if lawmakers do not pass a marriage equality law that will allow same sex couples to marry in New Jersey.

The group seems to feel that their support and backing of New Jersey Democrats means that lawmakers should now repay the favor with a special interest law that rewards them for their contributions and support.  While the law may pass before Governor elect Chris Christie takes office, if it does not Christie has already stated he will veto the measure.   Jon Corzine for whom the group supported, obviously will sign legislation if it reaches his desk.

In what seems like a special interest shake down of our government, only time will tell how our legislators will vote on this bill.   While we are certainly at a time in our nation’s progression where same sex unions should be acceptable, is it acceptable for special interest groups to feel entitled empowered to threaten our lawmakers publicly for voting on behalf of their constituents?  Should New Jersey Democrats approve the same sex marriage bill to reward their campaign supporters?

What do you think?