Former Senate Majority Leader Joe Bruno spoke at length this morning in a Talk-1300 AM radio interview on the evolution of his views on same-sex marriage, saying he now supports the measure.

It’s a very emotional, confrontational issue. In politics, in life, with legislation, timing is everything. Poll after poll shows the great majority of people recognize the individual rights of people to be united civilly in marriage. That’s where I came down for people to be recognized civilly. It really comes down in my mind for equal rights for everyone. So yes, I support it. I think the time has come.

It’s a turnaround from more than a decade ago when the Republican referred to homosexuality has an “abnormal lifestyle” — a comment Bruno said he now regrets.

“I have followed the more enlightened crowd that individuals can do what they see fit as long as they don’t hurt anybody else,” Bruno said. “Fred, I am enlightened, I have seen the light.”

Bruno first said he supported same-sex marriage back in 2009.

He also gave Gov. Andrew Cuomo “credit” for pushing the issue of same-sex marriage legalization. Cuomo’s goal is legalize same-sex marriage by the end of the legislative session in June.

“He’s leading very boldly and very aggressively,” Bruno said.

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