SHELBURNE, Vt. -
From politicians to people in our area, there has been lots of reaction to the president's announcement that he supports same-sex marriage.
Surprisingly, both opponents and supporters of same-sex marriage are happy the president has cleared up his view.
Even at a quiet bookstore in Shelburne, Vermont Wednesday, there was a sense of excitement about President Obama's announcement.
"Honestly my reaction was, it's about time," says Josie Leavitt, Flying Pig Bookstore co-owner.
Leavitt co-owns the bookstore with her partner of more than 20-years.
"That The President of The United States said he thinks gay marriage is a good thing is enormous. That alone is such a massive step," says Leavitt.
On Wednesday, the store just happened to host Zach Wahls, who wrote the best selling book "My Two Moms." His book reading came just hours after the president's endorsement.
"It was a very powerful reminder of how far we have come as a nation. When I was born back in 1991, my mom's relationship would have been illegal in 12 states," says Wahls.
But not everyone agreed with the president.
The Diocese of Burlington reaffirmed its opposition, as did Reverend Craig Bensen.
"We understand marriage to be the union of one man to one woman," says Bensen.
Bensen helped lead the fight against same-sex marriage in Vermont.
"I'm actually quite delighted that the president has decided to come and be honest about where he has been. Five, six years of just winking and talking about evolving positions didn't fool hardly anybody," says Bensen.
Back at the bookstore, Leavitt says she had felt her civil union to her partner was enough even after Vermont legalized same-sex marriage.
"If it becomes a federal right, then I'll be getting married," says Leavitt.
Even backers of same-sex marriage realize the president might risk not be re-elected by Wednesday's endorsement.
And while it was encouraging they admit there is a lot of work ahead to make same-sex marriage legal nationwide.
There was lots of reaction to the president on our FOX 44 Facebook page.
By Wednesday night, more than 250 people answered the poll question, if they support same-sex marriage. 84-percent said yes, 16-percent said no.
Darla Dunster says yes and wrote, "Of course...love is love!"
Bill Gokey voted no and wrote, "I do tolerate it, but don't condone it."
