2007 HRC-LOGO debate on GLBT issues (all Republicans invited but only Democrats accepted): “Hillary Clinton in 2007 Democratic primary debate on GLBT issues

On Civil Rights: Positive about civil unions, with full equality of benefits

Q: What is at the heart of your opposition to same-sex marriage?
A: Well, I prefer to think of it as being very positive about civil unions. You know, it’s a personal position. How we get to full equality is the debate we’re having, & I am absolutely in favor of civil unions with full equality of benefits, rights, and privileges. I want to proceed with equalizing federal benefits.
And I’ve also been a very strong supporter of letting the states maintain their jurisdiction over marriage. I want to repeal Section 3 of DOMA, which stands in the way of the extension of benefits to people in committed, same-sex relationships. I will be very strongly in favor of doing that as president.
I don’t know that we could have defeated the Federal Marriage Amendment if we had not had DOMA. I mean, that is something that, you know, has provided a great protection against what was clearly the Republican strategy, to just cynically use marriage as a political tool.
Source: 2007 HRC/LOGO debate on gay issues Aug 9, 2007″

(Via .)