Bruno – no, not that Bruno – supports same-sex marriage

Just as the new Bruno movie (think Borat in tighter pants) pushes homosexuality back into the realm of water-cooler conversation, another Bruno is weighing in on same-sex marriage.

Former Republican Senate majority leader Joe Bruno — a self-described “conservative Roman Catholic” — now says gays and lesbians should be allowed to marry.

In a written statement, he told the Associated Press:

As a Republican, I believe in personal freedom…I opposed same-sex marriage largely because the overwhelming majority of my caucus opposed it…

As a relatively conservative Roman Catholic, I instinctively view marriage as the foundation of the family. However, that view really does conflict with the rights that are afforded all of us.

This is America and we have inalienable rights … life is short and we should all be afforded the same opportunities and rights to enjoy it.

According to the AP, Bruno’s “change of heart that could influence the measure’s chances in the state Senate.”

Could the Glens Falls-native’s shift influence Queensbury Republican Betty Little, who opposes same-sex marriage?

Three other North Country lawmakers — Janet Duprey, Teresa Sayward, and DeDe Scozzafava – have already weighed in supporting gay marriage rights.

Tags: glbt