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Obama’s same-sex marriage stance surprises McDonnell

Posted at 8:36 AM, May 10, 2012
and last updated 2012-05-10 08:53:12-04

RICHMOND, Va. (WTVR) - There's no shortage of people weighing in on President Barack Obama's announcement that he now supports same-sex marriage, and Virginia Governor Bob McDonnell is one of them.

When asked about Obama's new stance by a reporter from a Charlottesville station, McDonnell said there are issues on which the President should focus his attention.

[READ NOW: Will Obama gay marriage support cost him Va?]

"Same sex marriages are already prohibited in the Virginia constitution. The people have spoken. I'm surprised to hear that President Obama has reversed himself. He said he wasn't for it, and especially when the issue is about jobs and the economy, for him to wade into social issues in an election year is sort of surprising," said McDonnell.

In a recent interview with ABC's Robin Roberts, the President said his position has evolved over the years, and he now believes gay and lesbian couples should be allowed to marry. Mitt Romney, the President's likely opponent this fall, says he opposes same-sex marriage and his position will not change.

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