Apple, the maker of high-end computers and electronics, is publicly endorsing and helping to fund an anti-Proposition 8 group in California. Prop8 is a ballot measure that would alter the California Constitution to prohibit same-sex marriage.

In a statement, Apple said:

Apple is publicly opposing Proposition 8 and making a donation of $100,000 to the No on 8 campaign. Apple was among the first California companies to offer equal rights and benefits to our employees’ same-sex partners, and we strongly believe that a person’s fundamental rights — including the right to marry — should not be affected by their sexual orientation. Apple views this as a civil rights issue, rather than just a political issue, and is therefore speaking out publicly against Proposition 8.

The move shouldn’t come as a surprise to those who’ve followed Apple’s politics. Steve Jobs is a regular donor to the Democratic National Committee, Nancy Pelosi, and other liberal Democrats. Al Gore (yes, that one) is actually on the company’s board of directors.