The issue needs to be decided by the people, says Governor Lingle, at the ballot box. Because when it comes to marriage and marriage-like institutions, "the reflection, collective wisdom, and consent of the people" is required. The reflection, collective wisdom, and consent of the people's duly-elected representatives just won't do. "This decision should be made... behind the curtain of the voting booth," says Lingle, just like the decision was made to legalize interracial marriage—remember?

Quotes from the governor's press conference, which is ongoing, courtesy of Rex Wockner.