With 10 years since same-sex couples began marrying, Massachusetts hasn't descended into the melee opponents predicted. But one thing shows signs of change -- the Republican Party.
The Republican candidate for governor, Charlie Baker, released an emotional television commercial in time for today's anniversary that unequivocally demonstrates his support for marriage equality. In it, Baker and his brother Alex sit together and reminisce about the moment in 1981 when Alex came out.
Alex Baker had asked, "What would you say if your brother told you he was gay?" And Charlie Baker replied "I'd say it's no big deal."
The Boston Globegoes into detail about what happened next, with Charlie Baker calling their mother to reassure her.
The Globe reports that Alex Baker is a Democrat but voted for his conservative brother during his failed bid for governor in 2010. Baker supported marriage equality then, as well. Now with incumbent Deval Patrick's term ending, Charlie Baker is again running for governor.
The commercial's most moving point is delivered by Alex Baker, who was married 10 years ago, when it would have been inconceivable for a statewide Republican candidate to run such a supportive ad. "Ten years has passed since that happened, and Massachusetts hasn't fallen apart, the institution of marriage in Massachusetts isn't crumbling because of gay marriage, and part of me just keeps hoping that the rest of the country can look at Massachusetts and say, you know, it isn't that big a deal."
Watch the ad below:
