DES MOINES - Gov. Chet Culver, an opponent of gay marriage, said Friday he would seek a quick response in the Legislature if the Iowa Supreme Court rules that same sex couples have a right to marry.

Culver, speaking after he taped "Iowa Press," said he doesn't want to take action before the Supreme Court rules. However, if the court upholds a lower court ruling in favor of gay marriage, he said the Legislature can, and should, respond quickly.

"We'll do whatever it takes to protect marriage between a man and a woman," Culver said.

He didn't rule out a special legislative session to deal with the issue, if the court rules after the Legislature adjourns for the year.

"We'll just have to wait and see," Culver said.