Paul Ryan On Prop. 8, DOMA: 'I Respect Those Who Have a Different View'

United States Congressman Paul Ryan has released a statement on the Supreme Court's decision to strike down the Defense of Marriage Act.

On Wednesday, the conservative GOP representative sent out his thoughts on the historical rulings against both Prop. 8 and DOMA.

Ryan, who serves as the chairman of the House Budget Committee and Wisconsin's first congressional district, is known for his fluctuating views on LGBT-related stances.

In the past, Ryan has said he supported gay adoptions, but remained opposed to gay marriage, according to media outlet The Blaze.

But on the day the Supreme Court slapped down the two anti-gay bills, Paul Ryan clearly said that homosexuality goes against his fundamental beliefs, giving a traditional stance on unions.

"The institution of marriage is a unique relationship between one man and one woman. It is the foundation for the family. I respect those who have a different view, and I hope we can carry on this conversation with civility and understanding," he wrote in his statement. "There are honest disagreements over how we should recognize different legal arrangements. The states will now decide this issue through the democratic process."

Prop. 8, California's 2008 initiative, defined traditional marriage as the joining of a man and woman. Today, justices ruled that bill did not represent the state, nor did it stand for the voters, which rendered it moot.

A 5-4 vote killed the DOMA bill, which barred LGBT couples from receiving government benefits.

NBC Producer Frank Thorp Tweeted an excerpt from Ryan's statement on Wednesday.