    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2006, Book I)]
    [June 7, 2006]
    [Page 1098]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement on Senate Passage of Marriage Protection Legislation
    June 7, 2006

        Today's Senate vote on the marriage protection amendment marks the
    start of a new chapter in this important national debate. I thank the
    Senators who supported this amendment, but I am disappointed the Senate
    did not achieve the necessary number of votes to move the amendment
    process forward. Our Nation's founders set a high bar for amending our
    Constitution, and history has shown us that it can take several tries
    before an amendment builds the two-thirds support it needs in both
    houses of Congress. My position on this issue is clear: Marriage is the
    most fundamental institution of our society, and it should not be
    redefined by activist judges. The people must be heard on this issue.
    And as this debate continues, each American deserves to be treated with
    tolerance, respect, and dignity.

    Note: The statement referred to S.J. Res. 1.