One for the Bad Idea Files: GOP to push for D.C. gay marriage ban - TheHill.com

In a move calculated to please the Christian conservative segment of the GOP but just about no one else, the GOP is reportedly considering a move to ban gay marriage in DC.

House conservatives say they will pursue legislation that would ban gay marriage in the nation’s capital.

Rep. Jim Jordan (R-Ohio), chairman of the conservative Republican Study Committee (RSC), told The Hill that he will push for a vote on the controversial issue in the 112th Congress.

I cannot begin to describe how bad an idea this is, and not just because I think that the government has no business telling people who they can and cannot marry.

The Republicans were swept into power in the House and nearly the Senate because they were talking about all the right things with regard to government spending and fiscal policy. Now is not the time to start talking about social issues. So long as the GOP remains focused on reining in runaway government spending they are will be on solid footing.

Before anyone starts wondering how Congress can do this in light of the new House Rule requiring citation to a Constitutional provision permitting the government action, Congress has the power to legislate on all matters within the District of Columbia. Article 1, Sec. 8 states, in part:

To exercise exclusive Legislation in all Cases whatsoever, over such District (not exceeding ten Miles square) as may, by Cession of particular States, and the acceptance of Congress, become the Seat of the Government of the United States.