[Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2004, Book II)] [September 30, 2004] [Pages 2247-2248] [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]Statement on House of Representatives Action on a Constitutional Amendment on Marriage September 30, 2004 Today a bipartisan majority of U.S. Representatives voted in favor of a constitutional amendment affirming the sanctity of marriage as a union between a man and a woman. I am disappointed that the House failed to achieve the necessary two-thirds vote. Because activist judges and local officials in some parts of the country are seeking to redefine marriage for the rest of the country, we must remain vigilant in defending traditional marriage. I welcome the important debate underway across America on this issue. [[Page 2248]]