Did Gay Marriage Sink Kerry?

[El Barto]

In Ohio and nine other states, Gay Marriage was soundly defeated.

How many religious folks would have stayed home if not for these ballot questions?

[fujowpai]

Only one of Karl Rove's tried-n-true tactics.

[Utah]

I think gay people sunk gay marriage, hurt Kerry, and drastically hurt themselves in the process.

I am pro gay marriage, but the actions of the gay rights supporters has been unbelievably bad, counter to US laws, and completely lacked a read on the political climate towards gay marriage.

[Jimbo]

Kerry sunk Kerry. When the majority of the people casting their vote for Kerry were really voting against Bush how could he expect to win?

Jimbo

[mmbt0ne]

Well, I voted for Bush, and against defining marriage as strictly between a man and a woman, and talking to friends of mine, I'm in the vast minority. I don't think that the gay marriage issue is what got people out to vote though, those who wanted to vote for Bush were voting for Bush regardless of what else was up for decision.

[vulturesrow]

I dont think it was what sunk Kerry. Here is the relevant information for those who are interested:

The states and their winning totals, with a majority of precincts reporting, include:


Arkansas - 74 percent
Georgia - 77 percent
Kentucky - 75 percent
Michigan - 61 percent
Montana - 66 percent
Mississippi - 85 percent
Ohio - 62 percent
North Dakota - 75 percent
Oklahoma - 74 percent
Oregon - XX percent
Utah - 73 percent


Of the 11 states, eight also barred recognition of civil unions, domestic partnerships, or other same-sex replicas of marriage. Mississippi, Montana and Oregon voted only on a man-woman definition of marriage.

[lorinda]

Pardon my ignorance again, but who decides which ballots go on which state's papers?

Lori

[vulturesrow]

It varies from state from state is really the best answer I can give you. Some states make it very easy to get various things on the ballots, Washington being a good example. In other states it takes more work.

[TomCollins]

Most come through petitions and if enough valid people sign, they make it on.

[ChristinaB]

It was a strategic mistake to make a big deal about this issue in a Presidential election year. Par for the course for Democrats unfortunately.