November 4, 2009 Gay marriage supporters, protesters clash in Maine Play video

(NECN: Amy Sinclair, Lewiston, Maine) - In Maine, a well-organized and well funded campaign failed to convince a majority of voters to support gay marriage. When all the votes were counted, 53 percent of Mainers voted to reject the new law that legalized same sex marriage in Maine.

It was shortly after midnight when Yes on One's leadership team took the stage to claim victory for so-called traditional marriage--between one man and one woman.

But Yes On One campaign manager Mark Mutty says he knew the race was won when he saw the returns from predominantly French Catholic Lewiston.

Mutty: "The fact that we took Lewiston was very reassuring that we would win."

This city, populated by socially conservative democrats was a key battleground because if gay rights activists could could win hearts and minds here, they felt they could win the state.

They did not.

Dave: I Voted yes I have nothing against homosexuals but I'm glad it turned out the way it did because it should be between a man and a woman.

The No On One campaign's consistent message of equality and fairness for all Mainers failed to reach Lewiston voters who rejected gay marriage by a wide margin.

Mark: "I don't have a problem with nobody but marriage is between a man and a woman."

Earlane: "I will never change my mind on this."

In Portland No on One supporters--clearly devastated by the loss-- filled the steps of city hall.

Mary: "What

Calling gay marriage the issue of the future, they vowed to continue the fight.

Mary: "Today is a day for grieving. but it's also a day for resolve because there's too much at stake to stand down."

They say they'll work to build bridges..hoping to change people's minds about same sex marriage one conversation at a time.

Mutty: "I'm also very concerned that both sides come together and that animosities are put aside."

But as this clash between yes and no voters clearly demonstrates, it's going to take some time.