Study: Majority of Americans Favor Traditional Marriage

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As the tense topic of gay marriage continues to circulate the country, a new study shows that 62 percent of Americans believe
“marriage should be defined only as a union between one man and one
woman.” Fifty-three percent “strongly agree.”

The scientific survey, which polled 1,500 adults between May 16
and May 19, was sponsored by the Alliance Defense Fund and completed
by Public Opinion Strategies. The research also included 14 focus
groups completed across the country.

“Americans recognize that marriage provides a strong foundation
for a thriving society,” says ADF Senior Counsel Brian Raum. “The
union between husband and wife benefits society—especially
children—in unique ways that cannot be duplicated by any other
relationship. Throughout history, diverse cultures and faiths
have recognized this universally defined ideal as the best way to
promote healthy, natural families for the good of future
generations.”

The results reflect voter behavior of Americans who are faced with
the decision to either affirm marriage in their state constitutions
or leave it open to legal challenges or other attacks.

“These numbers are not surprising,” Public Opinion Strategies
partner and the survey’s director, Gene Ulm, says. “More than 63
million Americans in 31 state elections have voted on constitutional
marriage amendments. Forty million Americans in all—63 percent of
total voters—have voted to affirm marriage as a union between a man
and a woman.”

“Americans strongly affirm the lifelong, faithful union of a man
and a woman as the fundamental building block of civilization,”
Raum explains. “This survey, along with the nearly 80 percent win
rate in ADF marriage cases, shows the opposition has created an
illusion of momentum but not a real base of support or track record
of victory in the courts.”

The survey results summary may be viewed here.