In new year, nine states plus DC will offer same-sex nuptials
Couples in four New England states challenged DOMA in federal court
Illinois, Delaware, Rhode Island and New Jersey may follow Maryland, Washington and Maine in legalizing same-sex marriage
Rhode Island, other states expected to debate issue in 2013
D.C. congressional delegate spoke during post-election panel at U.S. Capitol Visitor Center
Advocates confident of sweep in Md., Maine, Minn., Wash. battles
Voters in Maine, Md., Minn. and Washington to consider measures next week
Republican senators known for pro-gay support
Polls indicate majority of voters would support ballot measure to allow same-sex marriage.
The Vermont-based organization claims more than a million members
