If this were the end of it, the 50-48 vote would be a hopeful sign that the Senate wouldn't get sidetracked by the president's effort to divide the nation over social issues. But the close vote is most definitely not the end of it. The Bush-Cheney campaign hopes the issue can attract Democratic votes in swing states, particularly where state marriage amendments are on the ballot in November.

Proponents of the amendment are engaging in extreme hyperbole, especially Sen. Rick Santorum, R-Pa. "I would argue that the future of our country hangs in the balance because the future of marriage hangs in the balance," he said. "Isn't that the ultimate homeland security, standing up and defending marriage?"
