About two-thirds of Democrats say they favor allowing gays and lesbians to marry legally, up from 50% in 2008. Four years ago, about four-in-ten (42%) said they opposed gay marriage. That number is down 13 points to 29%.

According to survey done this summer, the partisan divide over gay marriage continues to widen. Just 24% of Republicans now favor allowing gays and lesbians to marry legally, which is only slightly higher than the percentage of Republicans who supported gay marriage in 2008 (19%).

Independent support for gay marriage has grown substantially since 2008. More independents today favor (51%) than oppose (40%) gay marriage; four years ago independents were divided evenly (44% favor, 45% oppose).

The public as a whole also has become more supportive of gay marriage. Currently, 48% say they favor allowing gays and lesbians to marry legally, while 44% say they are opposed. Four years ago, the balance tilted toward those who opposed gay marriage: 51% vs. 39% who said they supported it. Read More

Russell Heimlich  is a former web developer at Pew Research Center.