WCAX.COM Local Vermont News, Weather and Sports-Vermonters React to Override

Vermonters React to Override

Vergennes, Vermont - April 7, 2009

Many people told us they were overjoyed at this override; that it was a victory for love and all its many forms. Still others said they were embarrassed to be Vermonters, and that this move represents the interests of only a minority of the people.

"It's a sensitive issue," said Melanie Chaput of Vergennes.

Chaput sees just about everything in Vergennes. It's a busy little city-- the crossroads of urban and rural life, where tourists from around the state and country visit. So no surprise, people here are divided on the new same-sex marriage law that emerged from Tuesday's historic veto override.

"Everybody has a right to be with who they want to be with, I think. But as far as the definition of 'marriage,' I think it should be between a man and a woman," Chaput said.

Martha Redpath of Ferrisburgh screamed a joyous WOOOO-HOOOOOO, and added, "I was so happy and so thrilled. And it's just the right thing to do. It's great!"

But Peggy Morris of Johnson worried, "My feeling is, when there's children involved, how are they going to explain it to them? I believe in mom and dad. And I believe in a man and woman marriage."

"Hey, I'm for it. Everyone's entitled to their own thing. Go for it!" said Sherry Huestis of Burlington.

"It's not natural, it never should be. I'm probably prejudiced, but that's how I feel about it," said Wayne Kimball of Vergennes.

"If you love somebody, stick with that person you love. That's my opinion, no matter what," said Virgie Booska of Vergennes. "I am happy with it."

So that's the pulse of the people; divided but generally with a live and let live attitude. A few people we talked to say they actually learned a little bit about how Montpelier works through this closely-watched process; about the procedures a bill goes through before it becomes law and about the many considerations lawmakers have when they vote.

Jack Thurston - WCAX News

Related Story:

Vermont Legalizes Same-Sex Marriage