Pat Quinn gets behind the idea of allowing gay marriage in Illinois. The Democrat says he'll work with state lawmakers to make it a reality.
On Monday, the governor told reporters he doesn't want to wait for the courts to act first.
"I think in Illinois we are able to show the nation that we are a state that believes in respecting everyone. Everyone has dignity and rights. I think it's important that we show all the people of America what the Land of Lincoln's all about."
Quinn helped get a civil unions law approved last year, but has long given vague answers when asked about gay marriage. Explaining how he came to a firm stance on the issue, Quinn said civil unions have worked well over the past year. He says he now plans to push for what he calls "marriage equality."