President Barack Obama changed his tune and officially declared his support for same-sex marriage Wednesday, becoming the first sitting president to do so, according to ABC News.
"I've always been adamant that gay and lesbian Americans should be treated fairly and equally," Obama told ABC’s Robin Roberts in a sit-down interview that will air in its entirety on ABC's Good Morning America Thursday.
See more about Obama’s same-sex marriage views in a video excerpt here.
The President also emphasized that his stance on the issue is personal and he supports states deciding on their own where they stand on same-sex marriage, ABC News reported.
Leaders on both sides of the aisle, the gay community, as well as citizens responded in full force to Obama’s announcement, including at least one local leader.
Congressional representative , voiced support on her facebook page Wednesday:
“I am thrilled to see President Obama speak in favor of marriage equality for all Americans. Marriage is a right that everyone – gay or straight – deserves to enjoy. I’ve spent my career advocating for marriage equality. I am more optimistic now than ever that we can finally put the days of dividing Americans by sexual orientation behind us. If gay men and women are fighting in our military and dying on our behalf, the least we can do is ensure they have equal rights here at home.”
Luis Lopez, candidate for Assembly District 51, and foudner of co-founder of HONOR PAC and HONOR Fund, an organization that focuses on empowering LGBT individuals from the Latino community, thanked the president for going on the record with his support of same-sex marriage.
"I am immensely proud of our President today for making official his support for marriage equality. Casting aside fear and standing clearly on principle, President Obama has stated his full support for the full humanity of me and thousands of LGBT people in my district. He has honored the bonds, sacrifices, and commitments by millions of same-sex couples across our state and our nation, including the millions who are raising children, caring for relatives, and including veterans or service members. Marriage equality and the recognition and support of our diverse families should not be a question of liberals and conservatives.
It's not an issue of Democrats or Republicans. It is an American value that has deep significance for my family and the communities of Northeast and East L.A. The president has shown that political progress follows personal exposure, professional collaboration, and prolonged conversation. This has been true in my own family, in our community, and across California. The President's announcement gives us hope that these important interactions, along with committed political leadership, can overcome division and pave the way for full equality in our country and here at home in California."
Rep. Adam Schiff, D-Pasadena, who currently represents Altadena, also praised the president.
“Today, President Obama announced that he would support marriage equality for all Americans. The President’s strong statement is something that I am proud to support, and an issue of great significance to the country. Marriage equality extends one of our most basic rights of citizenship to all Americans – that is, the right to marry the person you love.
“It’s my sincere hope that marriage equality will soon become the law of the land, and as the President indicated, we can learn a lot from the changing views of the younger generation.”
"Members of the LGBT community serve in our armed forces, and contribute to the strength of our nation and community in every field of endeavor. They should have the right to marry, and enjoy all the benefits and responsibilities of citizenship without discrimination."
