In an unprecedented decision, President Barack Obama spoke out last week in support of gay marriage, leaving some to speculate whether his stance purely is for political purposes or was prompted by the actions of his Cabinet. Although some might see ulterior motives behind the president’s announcement, it still is a sign of social progression in the U.S.
During an interview with ABC’s Robin Roberts, Obama said his view on same-sex marriage has “evolved” throughout his presidency.
As the first serving president to endorse same-sex marriage, Obama isn’t alone in his support of this contentious social issue.
The president’s evolution toward his declaration reflects that of most Americans. A survey by the Pew Research Center shows a growing trend in support of same-sex marriage. In 2001, Americans opposed gay marriage by a 57 percent to 35 percent margin. In 2012, Pew found 47 percent of Americans now in favor of same-sex marriage and 43 percent opposed.
Many Americans have evolved in their support of same-sex marriage along with the president, which potentially could help the president gain independent voters in the upcoming election.
Obama has cast himself as a progressive candidate, igniting his liberal base to support him during the upcoming election. This announcement highlighted a stark contrast between the two candidates; potential Republican presidential opponent Mitt Romney has made it clear during the last week he believes marriage should be between one man and one woman with no exceptions.
Obama’s announcement shows a great step for our country in an attempt for marriage equality.
Nonetheless, Obama said during his interview that marriage definition should be left up to the states. He made no hint he would push for national legislation granting same-sex marriage benefits, leaving many proponents of same-sex marriage frustrated with the president’s lack of action for what they would consider to be a civil rights issue.
And the timing of this announcement was met with speculation.
Some politicians and citizens believe Obama was forced to comment on this contentious issue after Vice President Joe Biden announced last Sunday on NBC’s “Meet the Press” his support for same-sex marriage. Obama always might have had the intention to announce his support for this issue, but the announcement might have came earlier than expected because of Biden’s endorsement.
Republicans saw Obama’s announcement as a distraction from what they consider to be more
pressing issues, such as the economy.
The effect of Obama’s endorsement of same-sex marriage on voters is difficult to analyze during early stages of the campaign. A CNN poll shows only 13 percent of voters are more likely to vote for Obama this November because of his announcement, 26 percent are less likely to cast their vote for him, leaving 60 percent of voters unfazed by this announcement.
Voters will decide whether or not same-sex marriage is a pressing issue this November, and whether or not it is enough to sway them toward one candidate or another. Regardless of skeptical opinions regarding Obama’s motives, his announcement forever will be seen as an historic moment for the U.S.
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