Americans’ Views On Same-Gender Relations Show Shift Toward Conservative Values

In a recent survey conducted by Gallup News, it was revealed that fewer Americans, both Republicans and Democrats, view same-gender relations as “morally acceptable.” This shift in public opinion marks a departure from the record-high numbers seen in the previous year.

Fewer Republican and Democrat voters — as well as Americans overall — believe same-sex relations are “morally acceptable.” https://t.co/dIdX9fy1HK

— Breitbart News (@BreitbartNews) June 21, 2023

According to the survey, which was conducted between May 1 and May 24 with 1,011 U.S. respondents, last year witnessed a record-high of 71% of U.S. adults considering gay or lesbian relations as morally acceptable. However, this year the figure has dropped to 64%, returning to the levels seen in 2019. 

Despite this decline, it is worth noting that the acceptance of same-gender relations has significantly increased over the years. In 2002, only 38% of Americans found it morally acceptable, and in 2012, the figure stood at 54%. Since 2015, the percentage has consistently been 60% or higher.

The poll report highlights that while Americans’ opinions on various issues have generally become more liberal over the past two decades, the shift observed in the past year regarding same-gender relations has moved in a more conservative direction.

Of particular interest is the role of Republicans in driving the decrease in acceptance of same-gender relations. The survey indicates that 41% of Republicans now find it morally acceptable, a significant drop from the 56% recorded last year. This year’s figure marks the lowest level of acceptance Gallup has recorded among GOP respondents since 2014 when it stood at 39%.

While Democrats still maintain a higher level of approval for same-gender relations at 79%, their support has declined by six points compared to last year when 85% expressed acceptance. The current percentage aligns more closely with the figures from 2020 when 78% of Democrats reported approving of same-gender relations.

Interestingly, independent voters have remained relatively stable in their views of same-gender relations over the past few years. According to the survey, 73% of independents still consider relations between individuals of the same gender “morally acceptable.”

Further analysis of the crosstab data reveals additional insights into attitudes among various subgroups regarding same-gender relations. It appears that non-white respondents are ten points less likely to perceive same-gender relations as “morally acceptable” compared to white respondents. 

Specifically, 58% of non-white respondents expressed acceptance, while 68% of white respondents did. 

When broken down by age groups, it is the younger generation, aged 18 to 34, who are the most accepting of same-sex relations, with 78% expressing approval. This is followed by 67% of 35 to 54-year-olds and 54% of individuals aged 55 and older.