Lawmakers react to ruling favoring web designer who refused to help same-sex couple

The Supreme Court ruled Friday a Christian web designer can refuse to work on same-sex wedding websites, because of her religious beliefs.

Several lawmakers with Capital Region ties are reacting to the decision. Here are some of them.

In addition, click the video to hear reaction from Nathaniel Gray with the Capital Pride Center.

Democratic Gov. Kathy Hochul:

“I am disgusted that the assault on human rights by the Supreme Court continues. This decision — released on the final day of Pride Month — to roll back the rights of LGBTQ+ couples will be devastating to people across the country who are simply looking to love the person they choose. Here in New York, the birthplace of the modern movement for LGBTQ+ equality, we remain committed to implementing laws and policies that protect this community. We will never stop fighting for equality.”

Republican Assemblyman Chris Tague:

“The ruling made by the Supreme Court was a monumental shove towards returning equality to America. Getting into school should not be based on where the student comes from, their religion or the color of their skin; it should be based on merit and what they have accomplished to get to this point. The SAT and ACT were not created for fun, they were created to provide a measurement for the admissions process. We need to return to a system that looks at these scores, grades and achievements rather than looking at whether or not an applicant is a minority. Giving someone a spot in the classroom just because of the color of their skin should be considered racism in and of itself. The Supreme Court made the right decision, and I can only hope the United States continues on the right track.” 

Democratic Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand:

“This shameful decision by the Supreme Court overturns years of precedent and sets back decades of progress on LGBTQ equality in this country. Businesses should never have the right to discriminate on the basis of sexual orientation. I am outraged by this ruling and remain committed to fighting to ensure that members of the LGBTQ community can live free from discrimination and have the same civil rights as everyone else.”  

New York State Attorney General Letitia James:

“On this final day of Pride Month, the Supreme Court reminded all Americans that the fight for LGBTQ+ equality and dignity is very much ongoing. This disappointing decision to allow some businesses to ignore laws protecting LGBTQ+ couples from discrimination will have chilling effects. Once again, we have seen this court roll back the progress of the past and strip away rights and protections. I will always stand up and fight for the rights of all New Yorkers, because in our state we know that love is love.”