November 27, 2003

Abstract: (CPOD) Nov. 27, 2003 - A majority of Americans continue to reject wedlock for gay and lesbian partners, according to a poll by Opinion Dynamics released by Fox News. 66 per cent of respondents object to the recognition of same-sex marriage.

(CPOD) Nov. 27, 2003 - A majority of Americans continue to reject wedlock for gay and lesbian partners, according to a poll by Opinion Dynamics released by Fox News. 66 per cent of respondents object to the recognition of same-sex marriage.

Legal status to same-sex partners is offered --in the form of a civil union-- only in the state of Vermont. 48 per cent of respondents disagree with such agreements.

Last week, the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court ruled that the state's constitution must offer same-sex couples the possibility of getting married.

The U.S. Supreme Court overturned Texas' sodomy law earlier this year, in what was considered a major victory for gay rights advocates. President George W. Bush acknowledged in July that his administration intends to limit marriage to heterosexuals.

Polling Data

Today / Yesterday, the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court ruled in favor of gay marriage in that state. Do you support or oppose same-sex marriage?

Support	25%
Oppose	66%

Do you support or oppose allowing homosexual couples to form civil unions that are not marriages, but would give gay couples rights such as inheritance, insurance and hospital visiting privileges?

Support	41%
Oppose	48%

Source: Opinion Dynamics / Fox News
Methodology: Interviews to 900 American adults, conducted on Nov. 18 and Nov. 19, 2003. Margin of error is 3 per cent.