NJ Divided on Marriage Equality

February 19, 2009

A poll conducted by Monmouth University on behalf of Gannett shows that New Jersey remains divided on changing the marriage laws in the state. The poll shows that although the percentage of residents who favor allowing same-sex couples to marry (48%) remains unchanged from October 2007, the percentage who oppose recognition has dropped by 2% to 43%. Among registered voters, the percentage who favor allowing same-sex marriage is slightly higher at 50%, contrasted with 40% of registered voters who are opposed.

In a good sign, the number of residents who favor amending the state constitution to prohibit same-sex marriage (which would similarly prohibit recognition of same-sex marriages from other states) is now 41%, down from 47% in October 2007. Opposition to such an amendment has risen by 6% in the same period.

The pollsters go out on a limb, positing that "New Jersey public opinion seems to favor the status quo." However, it is more likely that New Jersey voters are not heavily focused on this issue and are more concerned with the economic crisis than the marriage equality issue.

A copy of the report is available here.

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