Knowing of your interest in traditional values, I wanted to take the time to inform you of yesterday's California Supreme Court decision to uphold Proposition 8, the constitutional amendment passed by California voters last year that defined marriage in our state as between one man and one woman.  I firmly believe that the Court made the right decision by respecting the will of the people and their support for traditional marriage.  Proposition 8 wasn't about discriminating against gays and lesbians or denying them equal rights under the law.  It was about preserving a long-established institution that is fundamental to every aspect of our culture.

As I and other supporters of traditional marriage commend the Court's ruling, we must also remain vigilant about defending this institution, because it is increasingly subject to intense debate in California and across our nation.  I am hopeful that like-minded citizens from every state will remain determined to protect this time-honored and essential institution in the future.