Gay Marriage Ballot Measures Losing PotencyPaul Hogarthbyline‚ Nov. 03‚ 2006In 2004, South Dakota shocked the nation by defeating Senate Minority Leader Tom Daschle. His Republican opponent, John Thune, won in large part because he scared voters about “homosexual marriage” and campaigned on “traditional family values.” But this year, South Dakotans will vote on a constitutional amendment against marriage equality and domestic partnerships – and the latest poll shows it down 46-47. It’s a stunning reversal from two years ago, when 13 states passed anti-gay marriage amendments with an average passage rate of 71%. This year, eight states will vote on similar amendments, but a good number are too close to call. As George Bush tries to rally evangelical voters against the recent New Jersey Supreme Court decision, it’s increasingly likely that this strategy will not work. Marriage equality advocates have become better at framing their message, as well as building a stronger grass-roots infrastructure. And as the War in Iraq continues, voters have more important priorities. |