We all knew it was doomed, but now it's official: the anti-gay-marriage amendment is history, at least for now. The motion to close debate and vote on the amendment failed, by a margin of 49-48 (with Geminis abstaining). This fell far short of the 60 votes needed for cloture, as well as the 67 votes -- a two-thirds majority -- needed for approval of a constitutional amendment.

Two quick observations, after the jump.

First, if you were hoping for an extended respite from this ridiculousness, don't get your hopes up. The House will consider its own version of the amendment later this year. And the Senate will probably return to it eventually as well. The Times reports:

Though some Republicans have suggested the Senate would be better served politically by focusing on issues that voters see as more pressing, the author of the amendment did not see it that way.

"If it's up to me, we'll have a vote on this issue every year," said Senator Wayne Allard, Republican of Colorado.

The gay marriage debate -- it's just like Christmas! But it may not turn out to be the electoral gift that Republicans have been hoping for.

Second, we couldn't help but chuckle at the final two grafs of this story about the amendment's defeat:

Conservative Christian groups are opposed to any recognition of gay relationships, and one group, The American Family Association, has boycotted the Ford Motor Company over its support of homosexual groups and advertising in gay publications.

But some gay activists say their relationships have become more accepted across America, pointing to the three Oscar awards won by the gay cowboy love story.

Wow -- three whole Oscars? Why did we even bother having this debate? You know an issue is settled once Hollywood has weighed in on it.

Gay Marriage Amendment Fails in U.S. Senate [WP]

Gay Marriage Ban Fails in Senate Vote [NYT]

Senate Blocks Same-Sex Marriage Ban [CNN]

Gay marriage ban fails to pass US Senate [AFP]

Earlier:Prior coverage of the gay marriage debate (scroll down)