By David Marks

Associated Press

PORTLAND, OR--Critics of the controversial "same-sex marriage ruling," that has allowed gay and lesbian couples to obtain marriage licenses in Multnomah County, felt vindicated today when officials accidentally married two horses.

Leonard Hibbitz, co-founder of the newly formed "In Defense of Marriage League," was quick to point out the clerical error. "I knew if they started giving out marriage licenses to homosexuals there would be trouble. Just last week I asked, "Who are they going to hand a license out to next? A horse?" And look! Look what happened!"

It"s unclear as of yet exactly how the two horses ended up with a notarized marriage license, or how they made it through an entire wedding ceremony without anyone noticing. "Diablo," a 18-year-old Appaloosa, married "Bow Tie," a 21-year-old Golden American Saddlebred--both are males, with Bow Tie"s owner claiming this is his horse"s second marriage.

Though surprised by the revelation, Multnomah County Chair Diane Linn stood by her previous decision. "The county will comply with the constitution and issue marriage licenses to same sex couples who request them--which I guess includes horses. I took an oath to uphold the constitution. I intend to do just that."

Hibbitz was unmoved by Linn"s argument. "Oh, that"s just great," Hibbitz said. "So if they"re going to let gays get married and let horses get married, then who"s next? Negroes?"