Prop. 8 Backers Try to Block Broadcast of Trial

SAN FRANCISCO (CN) – Supporters of Proposition 8 filed an emergency [petition](http://www.courthousenews.com/2010/01/08/Prop 8.pdf) with the 9th Circuit on Friday to stop the broadcast of the trial, which will start Monday and examine the constitutionality of California’s voter-approved ban on same-sex marriage.     U.S. District Court Judge Vaughn Walker on Wednesday said he favored a limited, time-delayed broadcast that he can control to be made available on YouTube and in federal courthouses across the country.      Backers of Prop. 8 worry witnesses won’t testify for fear of public scrutiny.      “All of proponents’ witnesses have expressed concern over the potential public broadcast of trial proceedings, and some have stated that they will refuse to testify if the age petition,” attorney Andrew Pugno wrote in his 48-page petition.     Prop. 8 was passed in November and defines marriage in California as being between a man and a woman.      Two gay couples sued, challenging the constitutionality of the measure. Their attorneys have said they are in favor of the trial being broadcast.