    [Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 40, Number 40 (Monday, October 4, 2004)]
    [Page 2175]
    [Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

    <R04>
    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.