Watch CBS News

Minn. Independence Party Opposes Gay Marriage Ban

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) -- The Independence Party of Minnesota is opposing a 2012 ballot measure that would ban gay marriage in the state constitution.

IP Chairman Mark Jenkins says the party will join a coalition working to defeat the constitutional amendment on same-sex marriage because its platform opposes government-imposed values or morality. He is urging people to volunteer to defeat the gay marriage ban.

Next year's statewide vote on gay marriage is expected to draw big money from both sides to Minnesota as social conservatives and gay rights activists face off.

The Independence Party is one of three major parties in the state, along with the GOP and Democratic-Farmer-Labor Party.

(© Copyright 2011 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.