Senate Expected to Vote on FMA Today

By Katherine T. Phan

The U.S. Senate is expected to deliver a vote on the Federal Marriage Amendment today. The constitutional amendment needs two-third majority, 67 votes, to pass although it currently has less than half of Senate votes. At least 60 Senators must vote on the issue to prevent a filibuster.

On Tuesday, some proponents of the amendment were looking to gain wider support for the FMA and considered omitting its second sentence, which many believe would remove the possiblity for states to decide on the issue of same-sex civil unions. Democrats have agreed to vote on the amendment only if the language is not changed.

Meanwhile, supporters of the amendment have been flooding the Main Capital Switchboard with calls urging their Senators to vote for the FMA. Sen. Ben Campbell's Washington office received about 500 calls per hour while Alabama’s Sen.Jeff Sessions reported receiving roughly 1,500 calls supporting the amendment and only 30-40 opposed. Many calls were a part of a pro-family initiative Sunday which called on Christians to especially urge undecided Senators to vote for the FMA.

Some Senators say they oppose same-sex "marriages" but want to leave the issue up to the states.

Sen. Rick Santorum said in response, "What those who suggest that we leave it to the states are suggesting is [that we] leave it to the state courts. That's always been the secret weapon of those who want to change our culture and change our laws without going through the process.

  • [Exclusive Interview] A revelation within the brink of life and death — Meg Leung’s mission in Christian art

    Meg Leung (梁麗橋), an artist with a lifelong love for watercolor painting, sees her art as more than a means of expressing her inner world; it is a bridge connecting her to God. Her artistic journey has revealed God’s perfect plan and inspired her to communicate the power of faith through her wor

  • Transgenderism a fundamental human right? Hong Kong public disagrees, survey finds

    A 2024 survey from the Society for Truth and Light (明光社)'s Center for Life and Ethics Research reveals that respondents from various backgrounds prioritize personal safety and fairness when it comes to transgender issues. When laws involve moral judgments, most respondents believe courts should not make the decisions. The study also indicates that religious believers share similar views with non-religious respondents, reflecting that many churches may rarely address gender topics in depth.

  • Discipleship and Evangelism: Walking the Path of the Great Commission

    Like an ever-flowing spring, the gospel refreshes dry, parched lands and needs our unwavering passion and steadfast faith to transform lives and bring renewal. The "flame in our hearts" calls Christians to keep their faith and love for the Lord ablaze, representing the work and power of the Holy Spirit, driving us to proclaim God's glory boldly.

  • North America Chinese Evangelical Seminary year-end report highlights significant ministry progress

    As the year draws to a close, Rev. James Liu, President of the Chinese Evangelical Seminary North America (CESNA), reflected on the seminary’s remarkable growth and ministry development over the past year. Dedicated to providing theological education to Chinese Christians, CESNA continues to uphold its mission to remain faithful to the gospel and nurture believers. This year’s achievements span academic, ministerial, and outreach endeavors, fostering spiritual growth and advancing missionary wo