Thirty-six percent of Americans say
their views on gay marriage have changed significantly over time, and
nearly three-fourths of those people say they now support such
unions.
According to survey data collected by
USA
Today/Gallup, fifty-three percent of Americans approve of gay
nuptials and even larger majorities support specific rights for gay
men and lesbians.
Pollsters found 61 percent of
respondents support adoption rights, 78 percent inheritance rights
and 77 percent health benefits.
“They have changed from 'this is
appalling' to, you know, 'what is wrong with that idea?'” Mary Ann
Schmertz, 82, is quoted as saying. “Why should they be
discriminated against? They're paying taxes. They're leading decent
lives.”
Majority support for marriage equality
is found in every age group except those 65 and older and in every
region except the South.
Knowing someone gay or lesbian is given
as a possible reason behind shifting attitudes.
“When you have a brother or sister or
relation, a friend, whatever, it's a personal thing,” said Mike
Haigerty, 49.
Nearly 50 percent of those opposed to
marriage equality cited religious reasons.