In a 5-4 decision the Supreme Court’s ruling on Obergefell v. Hodgesstrikes down laws in 14 states that ban same-sex marriage. Justice Kennedy wrote the majority opinion as he did in the last three major gay rights cases.

Republican National Committee (RNC) Chairman Reince Priebus stated,

The Supreme Court failed to recognize the states’ constitutional role in setting marriage policy, instead finding a federal role where there is none.  In doing so, they have taken power away from the states and from the people to settle the relevant issues for themselves.

Speaker John Boehner reacts to the ruling,

All human beings are created equal by God and thus deserve to be treated with love, dignity and respect. I am, however, disappointed that the Supreme Court disregarded the democratically-enacted will of millions of Americans by forcing states to redefine the institution of marriage. My views are based on my upbringing and my faith. I believe that marriage is a sacred vow between one man and one woman, and I believe Americans should be able to live and work according to their beliefs.

Governor Jeb Bush declares,

Guided by my faith, I believe in traditional marriage,” former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush said. “I believe the Supreme Court should have allowed the states to make this decision. It is now crucial that as a country we protect religious freedom and the right of conscience and also not discriminate.

Governor Scott Walker calls for a constitutional amendment,

I believe this Supreme Court decision is a grave mistake. Five unelected judges have taken it upon themselves to redefine the institution of marriage, an institution that the author of this decision acknowledges “has been with us for millennia.” In 2006 I, like millions of Americans, voted to amend our state constitution to protect the institution of marriage from exactly this type of judicial activism. The states are the proper place for these decisions to be made…

Senator Marco Rubio shifts the focus an says,

This decision short-circuits the political process that has been underway on the state level for years…While I disagree with this decision, we live in a republic and must abide by the law. As we look ahead, it must be a priority of the next president to nominate judges and justices committed to applying the Constitution as written and originally understood.

Senator Lindsey Graham notes,

I am a proud defender of traditional marriage and believe the people of each state should have the right to determine their marriage laws. However, the Supreme Court has ruled that state bans on gay marriage are unconstitutional, and I will respect the Court’s decision.

Governor Bobby Jindal states,

The Supreme Court decision today conveniently and not surprisingly follows public opinion polls, and tramples on states’ rights that were once protected by the 10th Amendment of the Constitution. Marriage between a man and a woman was established by God, and no earthly court can alter that.