No Broadcast for Prop 8 Trial: Supreme Court

High court says gay marriage trial can't be on YouTube, yet

By the Associated Press

Posted Jan 11, 2010 10:49 AM CST

(AP) – The Supreme Court is blocking a broadcast of the trial on California's same-sex marriage ban, at least for the first few days. The high court today said it will not allow video of the trial to be posted on YouTube.com, even with a delay, until the justices have more time to consider the issue. It said that the order will be in place at least until Wednesday.

The federal trial is scheduled to begin later today in San Francisco. It will consider whether the Proposition 8 gay marriage ban approved by California voters in November 2008 is legal. Opponents of the broadcast say they fear witness testimony might be affected if cameras are present. Justice Stephen Breyer said he would have allowed cameras while the court considers the matter.

Associate Justices Anthony Kennedy, left, and John Paul Stevens talk to each other as they sit for a new group photograph with other Supreme Court judges, Tuesday, Sept. 29, 2009. (AP Photo/Charles Dharapak)

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Showing 3 of 7 comments

BlahBlahBlah

Jan 12, 2010 12:38 PM CST

They can control what goes on it the court room and I for one think the decision is sound. You Tube is not the "public". If people want a front row seat go to the trial. The main reason you tube is feared is the inevetable right wing image mash-up. No doubt placing shocking pictures and cutting it into testimony of the witnesses. I can see it now..... "They are trying to kill the american family". That is why. Clear enough?

justme

Jan 12, 2010 1:14 AM CST

why does "open to the public" have to mean Youtube. I worked in a court situation. Testifying is tough enough on most people. They don't need the added pressure of being televised. Transparency is guaranteed by the court report. Youtube is an unecessary intrusion.

Netstorm2k10

Jan 11, 2010 9:51 AM CST

Since when does the SCOTUS have authority over Youtube? Everything ever done in government's name should be open to the public.

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No Broadcast for Prop 8 Trial: Supreme Court

High court says gay marriage trial can't be on YouTube, yet

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California • gay marriage • Anthony Kennedy • US Supreme Court • Proposition 8

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Judge Vaughn Walker's findings are extensive, well-reasoned

Gay-Marriage Ban Returns to Court in California

Prop. 8 case could set stage for Supreme Court battle

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Case could move up ladder...fast

Why Kennedy Will Back Gay Rights

He'll be thinking of legacy, and 50 years out this will be obviously right

Calif. Ruling Today on Gay Right to Marriage

But decision will surely be appealed

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No Broadcast for Prop 8 Trial: Supreme Court

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MOST POPULAR STORIES

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More Newser Stories

Prop 8 Ruling Tough for Supreme Court to Overturn

Judge Vaughn Walker's findings are extensive, well-reasoned

Gay-Marriage Ban Returns to Court in California

Prop. 8 case could set stage for Supreme Court battle

Prop 8 May Go to Supreme Court—This Week

Case could move up ladder...fast

Why Kennedy Will Back Gay Rights

He'll be thinking of legacy, and 50 years out this will be obviously right

Calif. Ruling Today on Gay Right to Marriage

But decision will surely be appealed

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