For many in the US religious belief hasn't really 'evolved' much since the 13th Century in fact
as far as they're concerned there is no such thing as evolution.
Of course it's 'not the norm' to marry a 12 year old these days it's simply child abuse.
16/17 year olds aren't really the issue it's more those under the age of legal consent that are the problem for marriage. If they aren't old enough to give consent for sex how can they be allowed to get married?
The Article refers to the last 15 years - Ancient History right?
Judicial approval from who exactly? Some local Christian fanatic judge who would rather have a child bride rape victim than say 'God forbid' a termination! If it was a local Muslim judge would that also be approved by Christian Americans.
Many states don't even require judicial consent, just parental. Judicial consent may only be required if parental consent is not obtained.
http://family.findlaw.com/marriage/s...sent-laws.html
https://www.nytimes.com/2015/10/14/o...e-problem.html
Do you believe the marriage of a 12 year old is justified in any circumstance not matter how rare? In fact it's almost impossible to know the full extent of it in certain communities - 10 states didn't even provide any information at all.
It's a loophole that's open to abuse in religious communities so it's simple just ban it at least until 16. Why can't you just admit it's wrong? Many US states rightly do so and have banned it.