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Dueling for advantages in the run-up to the May 8 marriage amendment vote continues apace.

The pro-amendment side, Vote for Marriage NC, tweeted today that it has talked with more than 4,000 pastors and has more than 600 “church captains” across the state. From the beginning, the pro side has planned to win the fight in churches. Looks like they’ve been busy.

On the flip side, the Coalition to Protect All NC Families, today released five videos with candidates for the state’s highest offices taking a stand against the amendment. They are all Democrats: gubernatorial hopefuls Walter Dalton, Bob Etheridge and Bill Faison, and lieutenant governor candidates Linda Coleman and Eric Mansfield.

Earlier in the week, “Clergy for Equality,” a group of 30 leaders representing 12 faith traditions, announced they plan to oppose the amendment through sermons, liturgy and prayer, The Charlotte Observer reported. The state’s two Catholic bishops have announced their support for the amendment.

A black robe, a gavel ... and a holster?

Trial court judges would be allowed to carry concealed handguns into courtrooms, under a House bill that was approved overwhelmingly on its second read yesterday.

Representatives had a vigorous debate. Some argued that armed judges would prevent courthouse shootings, while others warned of the risk to innocent bystanders.

And one lawmaker said it would just legalize a common practice:

"In my experience in the courtroom there’s a lot of judges who are already bringing a concealed weapon to court," said Rep. Tim Spear, a Washington County Democrat and retired state Superior Court clerk. "I fully support that." (N&O)

The House could take a final vote as early as today. The bill would then go to the Senate, which approved a similar bill in 2005. (AP)

Wake Reps. Dan Blue and Linda Coleman and Orange Rep. Bill Faison are co-sponsors.