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05/10/2012 04:15 PM

President launches fundraising tour, expresses support for gay marriage

By: Web Staff

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NATIONWIDE -- After having expressed his support for same sex marriage, President Obama has launched a fundraising tour.

Obama's first stop is a dinner party in Hollywood hosted by actor George Clooney. The event has raised nearly $15 million. He will then head to Seattle for additional fundraisers.

Obama has become the first sitting U.S. president to support same-sex marriage,after previously being undecided on the issue.

"And I believe that discrimination because of somebody's sexual orientation or gender identity ran counter to who we are as a people, and it's a violation of the basic tenants on which this nation was founded," said the president. "I believe that gay couples deserve the same legal rights as every other couple in this country."

Many think the announcement will bolster the president's popularity among young people, but polls show Americans are split on the issue.