Md. gay marriage opponents expect voter referendum

Maryland is poised to become ground zero for cultural issues next year, with a voter referendum set to determine tuition rates for illegal immigrants and another potentially on the way to decide whether same-sex couples can marry in the state. With the announcement that Democratic Gov. Martin O’Malley will sponsor a same-sex marriage bill next year, opponents are already gearing up for a voter challenge to what nearly became law this year.

“I believe it has a good chance of passing,” acknowledged Del. Pat McDonough, R-Baltimore County, a vocal opponent of same-sex matrimony. “If if does pass, it’ll definitely end up in a voter referendum. Conservatives and religious people against gay marriage are going to show up to vote en masse.”