BOSTON -- The gay marriage debate returned to Beacon Hill Wednesday, and while advocates from both sides were ready to press their case, legislators were not.

NewsCenter 5's Janet Wu reported that opponents of gay marriage outnumbered the other side three to one on the steps of the Statehouse. But advocates of same-sex marriage are far more confident these days even though they're still short eight votes.

"It makes a huge difference that we have the new Senate president on our side," Arline Isaacson said.

Senate President Therese Murray now joins a governor and House speaker squarely in the corner of gay rights activists. Her decision to postpone the vote until at least June 14 gives some great comfort.

"Looks like we're going to have another couple of months to find the votes," said Marc Solomon, of Mass Equality.

"There's no doubt about that. The time is to their advantage to reduce their margin of votes. Nonetheless, our votes are very firm," said Kris Mineau, of the Massachusetts Family Institute.

"Does this buy your side a few more months to find those eight votes?" Wu said.

"That's what our goal is. We do need more time," Isaacson said.

"I say the Senate is putting together its budget, and we don't have time to take it up today, and I told everyone that a few weeks ago," Murray said.

"And can you guarantee there will be a vote on the issue itself and not a procedural vote?" Wu said.

"I told people we'll have a vote, and we'll have a vote," Murray said.

"We're confident that the vote is going to be held," Mineau said. "That is the only way the Constitution can be met."