---
title: "Social Issues Low on Voters’ Minds in 2012"
description: "Although it has been a contentious issue in many states, just 28% of voters view gay marriage as a very important issue."
date: "2012-04-26"
authors:
  - name: "Russell Heimlich"
    job_title: "Former web developer"
    link: "https://www.pewresearch.org/staff/russell-heimlich/"
url: "https://www.pewresearch.org/short-reads/2012/04/26/social-issues-low-on-voters-minds-in-2012/"
---

# Social Issues Low on Voters’ Minds in 2012

Social issues have been low on voters’ minds in recent campaigns, and the same is true this year, according to a survey conducted April 4-15. Despite being a hot-button issue in many states, just 28% of voters regard gay marriage as a very important issue in this election year — the lowest showing for any issue polled on.

Birth control (34%) and abortion (39%) join gay marriage at the bottom of the list of issues voters care about.

To voters, the most important issues are the economy (86%), jobs (84%), the budget deficit (74%), health care (74%) and education (72%).

See also a related report: “[ More Support for Gun Rights, Gay Marriage than in 2008 or 2004.](%E2%80%9D)” [Read More](https://www.pewresearch.org/politics/2012/04/17/section-2-issues-of-the-2012-campaign/?src=prc-number)