Herman Cain's opposition to a
constitutional amendment banning gay marriage has put the GOP
candidate at odds with social conservatives.
Speaking
Sunday on NBC's Meet the Press, Cain told host David
Gregory that he “wouldn't seek a constitutional ban for same-sex
marriage, but I am pro traditional marriage.”
The former CEO of Godfather's Pizza
also stated his opposition to such an amendment during an earlier New
Hampshire GOP debate.
The National Organization for Marriage
(NOM), the nation's most vociferous opponent of marriage equality,
continues to chide Cain for not signing their anti-gay marriage
pledge.
Rick Santorum wasted no time in
renewing his criticism of Cain's position: “Mr. Cain, Governor
Perry and Congresswoman Bachmann all believe 50 different definitions
of marriage is fine. But I strongly disagree and will continue
fighting for traditional marriage between one man and one woman.”
In comments to The
Washington Post, Penny Nance, executive director of Concerned
Women for America, also blasted Cain: “States need an opportunity
to choose a constitutional amendment. I find it disappointing Herman
Cain doesn't see this as a viable option and is missing this
opportunity.”
“I think he will find that position
problematic,” she added.
Former presidential candidate and
Christian conservative Gary Bauer said that Cain “misses the whole
point.”
“The left will not permit each state
to decide. They have mounted a well conceived plan to have the
federal courts order every state to recognize the same-sex marriages
performed in every other state. The Defense of Marriage Act prevents
that now. Eventually a constitutional amendment will be needed.”