Mainers will likely be given an opportunity to repeal the recently enacted law that allows
same-sex couples to marry in the state. Aside from how you feel about the law, is
legislating by referendum appropriate when it affects a minority of the population? Is it
possible that the “tyranny of the majority” may rule? What if a referendum sought to
double the tax rate on all identical twins, or redheads, or people taller than six-feet,
six-inches? Shouldn’t elected representatives make these decisions? Or does the so-called
people’s veto process serve as a vital check against an elected government that snubs the
wishes of the electorate?