The Partisan Divide: A Decade of Same-Sex Marriage in America

For years, the United States appeared to be reaching a consensus on same-sex marriage. A decade post the Supreme Court's landmark ruling, however, the divide between Republicans and Democrats is wider than ever. Polling data reveals that, although general support has grown, Republican backing has notably dropped since 2023.

Once considered a largely unpopular issue, same-sex marriage has seen a shift in public perception. In the 1980s, it was supported by a small minority. Yet, from the 1990s, political stances began varying, and by 2004, Democratic support surged as states like Massachusetts legalized it at the state level.

The partisan gap remained wide, and while Republicans showed some increased support between 2010 and 2020, a decline has occurred recently. Generational attitudes within the party suggest future shifts, as younger Republicans are more supportive compared to their elders. Overall, younger Americans show stronger approval for same-sex marriage, highlighting a potential future trend.

(With inputs from agencies.)