Democratic Attorneys General Warn of Threats to Marriage Equality

At the LGBTQ+ Victory Institute’s International Leaders Conference in Washington, D.C., three prominent Democratic attorneys general—Anne Lopez of Hawaii, Kris Mayes of Arizona, and Dana Nessel of Michigan—addressed the precarious state of marriage equality in the United States. During the session titled “Women + Power: Attorneys General Defending Equality and Justice,” they expressed concerns that marriage equality, once viewed as settled constitutional law, is now under threat due to increasing federal attacks on civil rights.

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The attorneys general highlighted their roles as defenders of democracy in a challenging political environment. Anne Lopez emphasized the shift in her office’s mission, stating, “I never thought I would be a leader of an office that is actually fighting for democracy.” She noted that the coalition of Democratic attorneys general, now numbering 24, had been preparing for the current legal challenges even before President Joe Biden took office.

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Kris Mayes, who narrowly won her position in 2022, described her commitment to fighting for democracy, stating, “If all I ever do with the rest of my life is fight for democracy, I’ll be okay.” She has actively sued the federal administration over 30 times, reflecting the urgency of her role in safeguarding civil rights.

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Dana Nessel, known for her civil rights advocacy, highlighted the ongoing threats to democratic governance, particularly in Michigan, where her office faces lawsuits aimed at voter suppression. She asserted, “If we do not have Democratic attorneys general in the swing states, I don’t know what shot we’re going to have at making sure the real winners of our elections get their electoral votes.”

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The attorneys general detailed their collaborative strategies, which include frequent meetings to coordinate litigation and share intelligence. Mayes noted that their group has won approximately 80% of their cases at the district court level, which has resulted in significant federal funding being restored to various states. However, she expressed deep concerns about potential federal interference in state election processes and the ongoing threats to marriage rights.

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The attorneys general's remarks reflect a broader concern among Democratic leaders about the erosion of civil rights under the current federal administration. Nessel warned against complacency, stating, “Appeasement does not work. The only thing a bully like Donald Trump and his administration understands is fighting back with everything that you have.” This sentiment underscores the urgency felt by many in the Democratic Party regarding the protection of LGBTQ+ rights and democratic processes.

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As the session concluded, Mayes articulated the three critical forces that will determine the future of democracy: the courts, the crowds, and courage. She urged attendees to act decisively, stating, “Fight for your country — and do it now, because two years from now is too late.” This call to action reflects the attorneys general's commitment to not only defending marriage equality but also ensuring the broader protection of civil rights in an increasingly volatile political landscape.

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• “I never thought I would be a leader of an office that is actually fighting for democracy,” — Anne Lopez, Hawaii Attorney General

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• “If all I ever do with the rest of my life is fight for democracy, I’ll be okay” — Kris Mayes, Arizona Attorney General

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• “Appeasement does not work. The only thing a bully like Donald Trump and his administration understands is fighting back with everything that you have.” — Dana Nessel, Michigan Attorney General

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• “They are saying: fight. Fight for your country — and do it now, because two years from now is too late.” — Kris Mayes, Arizona Attorney General

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