Senate Majority Leader Stephen Sweeney, a Gloucester County Democrat who is poised to become Senate President, said today that Democrats should focus on the economy, not same-sex marriage.

"One of the things that’s wrong with the Democrat party is that the focus is on this issue when we have many others that should be really taking priority," Sweeney said at the New Jersey League of Municipalities convention in Atlantic City. He called same-sex marriage "an important social issue that will have its day," but said that after November's election his party should realize that the economy is the most important issue. 

His comments may further chip away at the chances for same-sex marriage passing in New Jersey. Gay rights advocates had hoped to move marriage legislation through the "lame duck" session of the Legislature that kicks off Monday. For them, the timing has become more urgent because Gov.-elect Christopher J. Christie, who takes office in January, has said he would veto a same-sex marriage bill.

Senate President Richard J. Codey (D., Essex) and Assembly Speaker Joseph J. Roberts (D., Camden) have said they would not put the bill up for a vote unless it has the support to pass. Roberts, also on the panel with Sweeney, said he supports same-sex marriage, but reiterated that he won't bring it for a vote until it has sufficient backing.

Assembly Minority Leader Alex DeCroce (R., Morris), said the issue should be put to voters, drawing applause from a number of municipal officials watching the panel.

The topic came up at a leaders' panel hosted by NJN's Michael Aron. After Aron led a political discussion for NJN'S On The Record television show, the audience got to ask questions. When one person asked about the lame duck session, Aron specifically asked about same-sex marriage.

"I thought you were finished with your questions," Roberts quipped, winning laughter. 

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