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WNIJ's summary of news items around our state.

Illinois governor makes clear his support for gay marriage

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."