Otter says he ‘appreciates’ the 9th Circuit’s temporary stay on marriage ruling, avoids ‘chaos and confusion’

Gov. Butch Otter issued the following statement on the temporary stay issued this afternoon by the 9 ^th Circuit Court of Appeals, blocking legal same-sex marriage from beginning tomorrow morning at 9:

“I appreciate the 9 ^th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals stepping in to ensure Idaho will not have to endure the same kind of chaos and confusion that Utah faced after a similar lower-court decision. Today’s ruling stays the federal magistrate’s order and maintains the status of marriage as defined by the Idaho Constitution – between one man and one woman. Meanwhile, I am proceeding with an aggressive challenge in the appellate court. I’m hopeful for a better outcome, but in any event I am committed to defending our Constitution and the will of Idaho voters.”