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.

Copyright Associated Press