Decline in Support for Same-Sex Marriage in the U.S.

A recent Gallup poll reveals a decline in support for same-sex marriage in the United States after years of increase. Currently, about 65% of U.S. adults believe same-sex marriage should be legal. This represents a drop from a high of 71% in 2022 and 2023. This decline marks a pause or potential reversal in one of the most significant opinion changes in recent U.S. history. Public approval had appeared stable since the 2015 Supreme Court decision to legalize same-sex marriage nationwide.

Key Findings

The latest data, released during Pride Month, shows that 65% of Americans support legal same-sex marriage, down from 71% in 2022 and 2023. Additionally, 62% view gay and lesbian relationships as ‘morally acceptable,’ the lowest since 2016. The decline appears across all political affiliations, although the extent varies.

The Gallup Values and Beliefs survey, conducted from May 1-17, 2026, involved 1,001 adults, with a margin of error of ±4 percentage points.

Trends Over the Years

The findings disrupt a consistent increase in support over the decades. Support for same-sex marriage had previously risen from 27% in 1996 to nearly 70% in recent years. Morality views on same-sex relationships climbed from around 40% in 2001 to a high of 71% in 2022. Experts suggest this decrease may not be a short-term anomaly.

Adam Cohen-Aslatei, CEO of Three Day Rule, indicates the results might reflect shifting political grounds rather than a real drop in support. He notes people may now selectively express their beliefs due to polarization and social pressure.

Analysis by Political Affiliation

• Republicans: Support has fallen sharply to 37%, with moral acceptance also low at about 35%.
• Independents: While support remains relatively high at 67%, it has declined somewhat.
• Democrats: Support remains high, with only a slight 1-point decrease. About 87% support same-sex marriage.

The decrease is mostly due to shifts among Republicans, although trends show minor declines in other groups as well.

Controversy and Political Responses

The poll results were released following a controversial statement by Republican Representative Andy Ogles. He posted on X that ‘homosexuality has no place in America’ and faced backlash, including from fellow Republicans. Ogles later apologized, blaming a communication error.

Future Implications

It remains uncertain if this represents a lasting change in public perspective. Same-sex marriage remains legal nationwide. Future polls will clarify if opinions stabilize or decline further.

Nicholas Hardy, a psychotherapist, believes the trend reflects political polarization rather than changing social dynamics. Should this trend persist, it could lead to questions about the potential impact on rights.