Republican Governor won't challenge Pennsylvania's same-sex marriage ruling

HARRISBURG, Pa., May 21 (UPI) -- Pennsylvania Governor Tom Corbett will not appeal a judge's decision to overturn the state's same-sex marriage ban, allowing weddings to begin this weekend.

U.S. District Judge John Jones ruled that the ban was unconstitutional and prejudicial saying, "We are a better people than what these laws represent, and it is time to discard them into the ash heap of history."

Corbett stated that he is still against equal rights for same-sex couples in Pennsylvania, citing personal religious interpretations, but does not believe an appeal would be successful.

"Given the high legal threshold set forth by Judge Jones in this case, the case is extremely unlikely to succeed on appeal," Corbett said.

The court has spoken, and I will ensure that my administration follows the provisions of Judge Jones' order with respect for all parties. It is my hope that as the important issue of same-sex relationships continues to be addressed in our society, that all involved be treated with respect.

Corbett, one of the most unpopular governors in the country, will have to get through Pennsylvania businessman Tom Wolf to regain the statehouse. Wolf won the Keystone State's Democratic primary by a commanding margin yesterday.