Rhode Island governor ‘acting as a dictator’ with same-sex ‘marriage’ executive order, foes say
PROVIDENCE, RHODE ISLAND , May 17, 2012, ( LifeSiteNews.com ) – Rhode Island Governor Lincoln Chafee ’s critics are accusing him of “acting as a dictator” after signing an executive order forcing the state to recognize same-sex “marriages” conducted out-of-state. Chafee, a former Republican U.S. Senator who changed his party affiliation to independent, signed the order on Monday. Rhode Island Governor Lincoln Chafee's father, John, was a U.S. Senator, too. The measure forces Rhode Island to legally recognize the same-sex “marriages” of couples who have a ceremony conducted in another state, where such unions are recognized. The decree entitles partners to full insurance coverage, the right to list both names as “parents” on birth certificates, and other benefits. “This is another step that gets us further down the path toward same-sex marriage,” said House Speaker Gordon Fox , who is openly homosexual. Fox was present at Chafee’s announcement with Lt. Governor