why not debate?

Testy moment in the Senate Judiciary Committee.

I guess I agree with Specter here. I'd probably oppose the amendment, but don't see why the Senate shouldn't debate it. What's wrong with debate?

NOTE: I would actually oppose the amendment because I don't feel it's the federal government's job to define marriage. I feel it should be left to religious institutions, as marriage is, after all, a religious institution itself.