On the POTUS and Same-Sex Marriage: Too Far? Too Fast?

On May 9, in an interview with ABC, President Barack Obama became the first sitting U.S. President to publicly endorse same-sex marriage.

“I think same-sex couples should be able to get married,” President Obama said.

Whether you agree with the president or not, he took a bold step by speaking his truth, asserting more than what he thinks is popular or what will get him elected.

But the country is divided on this issue and not just across party lines: Many of those on the left and on the right point to religious doctrines, such as the Bible, which speaks plainly against homosexual unions. While others aim to preserve what they feel is the sanctity of the institution of marriage, based on what is written as law.

However, doctrines of the Bible also once were used to justify slavery in America as an institution. And as for law, let us not forget that for centuries, Blacks also were not allowed to legally marry in this country, forcing them to seek other ways to seal their commitment by “jumping the broom.”

Furthermore, consider that as recent as 1967, before the Supreme Court decision in Loving v. Virginia, interracial marriage also was banned in the United States. Can you imagine: Less than 50 years ago in this country, it was illegal for people of different races to marry?

But the country has evolved, making these sort of laws and cultural institutions today seem primitive and archaic. Similarly, President Obama says we must continue to evolve.

But many say he has gone too far and/or is moving too fast? Do you agree?

By "coming out" with his views in support of marriage equality, has President Obama's solidified his base? Or has he risked his political future?

Take our poll and tell us in the comments.