New Mexico voters split on gay marriage issue
Posted at: 07/07/2011 10:51 PM
By: Stuart Dyson, KOB Eyewitness News 4
New Mexico may not be ready to follow New York into the group of states that have legalized gay marriage. A new poll finds a majority of voters here oppose same-sex marriage.
Few issues divide people like gay marriage does, but the poll from Public Policy Polling shows 10 percent of us here in New Mexico still aren't sure where we are on this one. 48 percent say no - don't make it legal, while 42 percent say yes - put it in the law books. The "no" votes seem to have the edge, but the "not sure" element keeps it from looking like a done deal.
Supporters of gay marriage, like Neil Macernie of Albuquerque Pride, said the poll is not discouraging.
"Polling data really kind of helps us out, to understand where we need to do our work," Macernie said. "In New Mexico I think we've always been a politically balanced state. I think that gives us the opportunity to make a change."
Opponents, like state Rep. David Chavez, a Los Lunas Republican, said the issue ought to go on the ballot as a proposed amendment to the state constitution.
"This poll is again an indication that New Mexicans are opposed to same-sex marriage at this time," said Chavez. "It's significant. This should go before the voters."
It gets complicated when you throw domestic partnerships or civil unions into the mix, as the poll did in a follow-up question. 31 percent of the voters said they approved, with that alternative position drawing support from both dies on the marriage issue.
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