In a recent poll released January 30th by Quinnipiac University regarding support for same-sex marriage among Pennsylvania voters, the results were closely divided but in favor 47% to 43%.

The poll surveyed a total of 1,221 registered Pennsylvania voters over a 5 day period by making calls to landlines and cellphones.  The surveyed produced results for Pennsylvania voters overall as well as demographic groups such as particular age groups or religions.

Women in Pennsylvania support same-sex marriage by a margin of ten (50% to 40%) while men are slightly opposed (46% to 44%).

The survey outcomes were generally split along party lines; Democrats showed strong support (65% to 27%), Independents demonstrated moderate support (51% to 38%), and Republicans opposed same-sex marriage (67% to 23%).

Quinnipiac also surveyed white Catholics and white Protestants who support and oppose same-sex marriage respectively (50% to 40%, 60% to 31%).

In keeping with national trends, the poll found that support for same-sex marriage was strongest among the age group 18 to 34 (68% to 25%), close among those 35 to 54 (48% to 41%), and weak among those aged 55 and over, who oppose it (52% to 39%).

Voters surveyed were also asked an open-ended question about what they feel is the most important question facing the state.  The economy was listed as the primary concern by 37% of those surveyed.  Education and taxes followed claiming 10% and 8% respectively, and the state budget and politicians claimed 7% each.

The Quinnipiac University Poll conducts public opinion surveys in various states as well as nationwide and is directed by Douglas Schwartz, Ph.D.