It is with great regret that I quickly learned that a senator I had admired, someone who I believed to be an outstanding individual, had voted no on the marriage equality bill for Delaware.

Republican Sen. Ernie Lopez, who represents Rehoboth Beach, one of Delaware’s very diverse communities, says he was unable to vote yes on this important piece of legislation due to his personal beliefs. I guess his personal beliefs outweigh the beliefs of the residents he was put into office to represent.

“For me, this has been a difficult decision, but one in which I believe, because of what I’ve know for the past 36 years of my life, that marriage is between one man and one woman. That’s why I’ll be voting no today on this bill,” Lopez stated.

I know I speak for many when I say Mr. Lopez will no longer receive my vote and I will do my best to educate others on his narrow points of view regarding human rights between now and the next election. I, as well as many others, are very grateful to the the senators that have extended this basic civil and human right to all residents of the great state of Delaware.

Lou Fiore
Rehoboth Beach