Gay Australian Politician Proposes During Same-Sex Marriage Debate

A member of parliament in Australia on Monday proposed to his long-term partner during a final debate on the bill to legalize same-sex marriage in the country. Tim Wilson, 37, in the center-right Liberal party, teared up as he explained the toll the debate has taken on his life. “This debate has been the soundtrack to our relationship,” he said. Wilson said that he and his partner, Ryan Bolger, already wear rings on their left hands despite the fact that they can’t yet legally marry in the country. “So there’s only one thing left to do,” Wilson said, as his voice broke. He turned to the public gallery, where Bolger sat. “Ryan Patrick Bolger, will you marry me?” Bolger said yes. The deputy speaker made sure that the answer was recorded in the official record, adding, “Congratulations.”