Gay marriage: Watch plaintiff Jim Obergefell receive congratulatory phone call from Barack Obama after Supreme Court decision

Mr Obergefell's husband died two years ago

Jim Obergefell receives phone call from Barack Obama

Jim Obergefell, one of the plaintiffs who brought the case that led to Friday’s historic ruling, was on the steps of the Supreme Court to receive a phone call of congratulations from Barack Obama.

Mr Obergefell lost his husband, John Arthur, two year ago. Because same-sex marriage was banned in Ohio, he had flown his then very ill partner in a medically-equipped plane to Maryland to marry.

On Friday, Mr Obergefell was present at the court to savour his bitter-sweet victory and to receive a call from President Obama to offer his congratulations. Mr Obergefell place his mobile on speaker phone for the call.

“Your leadership on this has changed the country,” Mr Obama told him.

Mr Obergefell responded: “I really appreciate that, Mr President. It has really been an honour for me.”

Mr Obama then said: “I’m really proud of you. Not only have you been a great example for people but you’re going to bring a lot of lasting change in the country. I could not be prouder of you and your husband. God bless you.”