Governor-elect Chris Christie / Gov. Jon Corzine

Trenton, N.J., Jan 7, 2010 / 06:12 pm (CNA).- A last minute attempt to push a gay “marriage” bill through the New Jersey Senate was defeated today by a vote of 20-14, ending the attempt to pass the measure before Democratic Gov. Jon Corzine leaves office.

The defeat of the bill comes just before Republican Chris Christie takes over the governor's office on January 19. Corzine had promised to sign the bill if it made it to his desk before he left office.

The incoming Christie has promised to veto any legislation legalizing gay “marriage.”

Opponents of the bill note that New Jersey legalized domestic partnerships in 2002 and civil unions in 2006. They claim that this bill would have had adverse affects on religious freedom.

“From the beginning, Republicans have opposed legislative and judicial efforts to redefine marriage in New Jersey and called for any changes to be put on the ballot for voters to decide. We believe that the majority of New Jerseyans agree with that position," Republican State Committee Chairman Jay Webber told New Jersey Real Time News.

Four states currently allow homosexual “marriage” while another 30 have constitutional amendments protecting traditional marriage.

It is unlikely that the bill will be brought up again soon.

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