HRC: History in the Making: Gallup Poll Shows Support for Marriage Equality Exceeds ‘Symbolic’ 50% Mark

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 20, 2011

History in the Making: Gallup Poll Shows Support for Marriage Equality Exceeds ‘Symbolic’ 50% Mark

Marriage Advocates Can “Take Heart” the American People Are With Them

WASHINGTON – This morning Gallup released a groundbreaking poll showing a majority of the American people (53%) support the marriage of committed gay and lesbian couples. This is one of several major polls to confirm the sea change in public opinion on the issue of marriage equality.

“This year marks a significant uptick in support for legalizing same-sex marriage, exceeding the symbolic 50% mark for the first time in Gallup’s history,” noted the polling organization.

The poll found Democratic and Independent support for marriage equality increased by more than 10 points over the past year. 69% of Democrats, 59% of Independents, and 28% of Republicans support marriage equality.

“The verdict is in,” said HRC President Joe Solmonese. “The trend toward marriage equality is undeniable-- and irreversible. Marriage for committed, loving couples continues to be an important value of the American people.”

Previous polls by CNN, Associated Press, and Washington Post registered majority support of marriage equality.

“At the moment,” writes Gallup, “those advocating changes in constitutions and laws to allow same-sex marriage in additional states can take heart in the apparent shift in national sentiment in their direction.”

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