Judge Hearing Prop 8 Case Is Gay

The judge who will rule on the constitutionality of California’s gay marriage ban is gay. Vaughn Walker, who drew the assignment at random, has a reputation as a conservative and libertarian. Gay activists say his sexual orientation isn't an issue, but a rep for the group that sponsored the anti-gay-marriage legislation isn't so sure, reports the San Francisco Chronicle.

The Prop 8 advocate was quick to say he doesn't necessarily see a direct link, but he added: "In many ways, the sponsors of Prop. 8 have been put at significant disadvantage throughout the case. Regardless of the reason for it." And a state senator who opposes Prop 8 says he finds it "curious” that no one wondered about the sexual orientation of the state supreme court justices who have ruled on the issue. (More Vaughn Walker stories.)