Yes, its election time but honestly, I dont see this getting him more votes. If anything it will probably lose him votes. NOt like his opposition if for gay marriage and he is trying to take some of his votes. He was already the most viable candidate to get equality. It may firm up some of his base, but not really add to it. I do think he probably always thought this but held back to get elected, annoying, but for some reason people in this country are ridiculous when it comes to same sex marriage.
I dont care what your religious views are, you dont get to oppress and deny a minority because of them. Dont like same sex marriage? Dont have one, go to churches that dont perform them, heck, you can "not recognize" them all you want! Same sex couples getting married is IN NO WAY whatsoever going to affect anyone but the couple getting married.