April 16, 2004

Abstract: (CPOD) Apr. 16, 2004 - Although the number of Americans who see nothing wrong with allowing wedlock for gay and lesbian couples remains low, more people are supporting the idea, according to a poll by Harris Interactive. 27 per cent of respondents approve of same-sex marriage, a 16 per cent increase since 1996.

(CPOD) Apr. 16, 2004 - Although the number of Americans who see nothing wrong with allowing wedlock for gay and lesbian couples remains low, more people are supporting the idea, according to a poll by Harris Interactive. 27 per cent of respondents approve of same-sex marriage, a 16 per cent increase since 1996.

Marriage certificates have been issued to same-sex couples in the states of California, Oregon, New Mexico and New York, while civil unions are available in the state of Vermont. The number of respondents in the United States who disapprove of same-sex marriage stands at 50 per cent, a 13 per cent drop in eight years.

Some Americans believe that banning wedlock for gay and lesbian partners represents a violation of inherent freedoms. 41 per cent of respondents believe that not allowing same-sex couples to marry goes against a fundamental American right that all people should be treated equally, while 47 per cent disagree.

Polling Data

Do you approve or disapprove of same-sex marriage?

	2004	2000	1996
Approve	27%	16%	11%
Disapprove	50%	55%	63%

Do you think not allowing same-sex couples to marry goes against a fundamental American right that all people should be treated equally?

Yes	41%
No	47%

Source: Harris Interactive
Methodology: Online interviews to 3,698 American adults, conducted from Mar. 18 to Mar. 29, 2004. No margin of error was provided.