(AP photo)

(AP photo)

We commend Senator Mark Kirk (R-IL) for announcing his support for marriage equality on his blog:

Illinois Republican Senator Mark Kirk came out in support of marriage equality Tuesday shortly after the Supreme Court heard two potentially historic cases on gay rights.

“When I climbed the Capitol steps in January, I promised myself that I would return to the Senate with an open mind and greater respect for others,” Kirk wrote on his blog.

“Same-sex couples should have the right to civil marriage. Our time on this earth is limited, I know that better than most. Life comes down to who you love and who loves you back– government has no place in the middle.”

Kirk is the second sitting Republican Senator to endorse marriage equality, following Ohio Republican Sen. Rob Portman last month.

Fantastic!

Also announcing their support in the last 24 hours:

Sen. Bob Casey (D-PA), Sen. Tom Carper (D-DE) and Rep. John Carney (D-DE). Our side of the fence is getting crowded!