Gay Marriage Returns to the Political Spotlight

UNDATED - With a flurry of coast-to-coast developments this week, same-sex marriage is back in the political spotlight and likely to remain there through Election Day as a half-dozen states face potentially wrenching votes on the issue.

In Maryland, New Jersey and Washington, bills to legalize same-sex marriage have high-powered support and good chances of passage in the legislature. Opponents in Maryland and Washington would likely react by seeking referendums in November to overturn those laws, while New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie says he'd veto the bill and prefers that lawmakers OK a referendum so voters can decide.

Maine voters may have a chance to decide on same-sex marriage in November. In North Carolina and Minnesota, proposed amendments to ban gay marriage will be on the ballot.

(Copyright 2012 by The Associated Press.  All Rights Reserved)