http://newiprogressive.com/images/stories/S5/scotus-same-sex-0626-s5.jpgThe 5-4 ruling was consistent with the court's long progression toward the equal right of each individual in the face of oppression and discrimination by the majority. In Wisconsin, progressive political leaders were quick to respond.

WASHINGTON - In a landmark opinion, a divided Supreme Court on Friday ruled that same-sex couples can marry nationwide, establishing their civil rights as law and handing gay rights advocates a historic victory.

In the 5-4 ruling, Justice Anthony Kennedy wrote for the majority with the four liberal justices. Each of the four conservative justices wrote their own dissent.

“No longer may this liberty be denied,” Justice Anthony M. Kennedy wrote for the majority in the historic decision. “No union is more profound than marriage, for it embodies the highest ideals of love, fidelity, devotion, sacrifice and family. In forming a marital union, two people become something greater than once they were.”

In dissent, Chief Justice John G. Roberts Jr. said the Constitution had nothing to say on the subject of same-sex marriage. In a second dissent, Justice Antonin Scalia mocked the soaring language of Justice Kennedy, who has become the nation’s most important judicial champion of gay rights.

At it's most basic, the ruling was consistent with the court's long progression toward the equal right of each individual in the face of oppression and discrimination by the majority.

In Wisconsin, progressive political leaders were quick to respond. Russ Feingold released the following statement:

"Today's ruling affirms a clear constitutional principle: that same-sex couples must have access to the same rights, privileges and benefits afforded to everyone else, and that includes marriage.

"Nearly 20 year ago, I opposed discrimination by voting against the Defense of Marriage Act. Today, in 2015, I'm happy that our friends, neighbors, and family members in Wisconsin and across the country will always have the right to marry the one they love, no matter where they call home. Discrimination has no place in our laws.

"This victory is a credit to the members and allies of the gay community who never gave up - who helped change both laws and minds to affirm America's fundamental beliefs in equality and love.

"We know the fight for equality isn't over yet, but together we'll continue to strive for equal standing, under the law, for all Americans."

Wisconsin State Senator Chris Larson said today’s U.S. Supreme Court decision affirms marriage equality for all nationwide.

Larson said “With today’s decision, ideological forces nationwide will no longer be able to promote inequality, foster discrimination, or unconstitutionally limit our rights and freedoms over who we choose to marry. The Supreme Court’s decision says equality, fairness, and the freedom to love and marry whomever you want is guaranteed to all Americans. This is a victory for our nation’s morality and supports the shared values our nation was founded on. Today, is truly a day to celebrate and one that will be remembered as a day of justice for the rest of our nation’s history.”

Senate Democratic Leader Jennifer Shilling (D-La Crosse) agreed: “Our communities are strengthened when committed couples and loving families share equal rights under the law. Today’s decision confirms what many in our state have known for years: Love is Love. While the ruling in this case has settled the debate over marriage equality, the fight for equal rights continues across our country. I am proud to stand on the right side of history and hope today’s ruling will help move our state forward and bring our country closer together.”

Assembly Democratic Leader Peter Barca (D-Kenosha) said: “Today’s Supreme Court ruling represents a historic victory for millions of couples across the country who have waited years or even decades to enjoy the freedom to marry. One of our nation’s founding principles is that all are created equal, and I am pleased to see that principle upheld today by the highest court in the land."

Barca also thanked "all the individuals and organizations who have worked so hard for so long to advance this cause and make this ruling possible."

Finally, Rep. Dana Wachs (D-Eau Claire) said in a statement: “This is a monumental day in our nation’s history. This decision means that same-sex marriages are now legal throughout the entire country. No longer will states be allowed to create discriminatory bans against same-sex couples who seek to have the same rights, benefits, and recognition as everyone else. This decision has been a long-time coming.”