Public More Positive on Marriage Equality

Independent voters have become more supportive of marriage equality in recent years, with 51% now in favor of it, up from 37% in 2009, according to a Pew Research Center poll released Thursday.

Overall, voters have shown an eight-percentage-point increase in support of marriage equality since 2009. Currently, 45% say gay and lesbian couples should be allowed to marry, 46% are opposed, and 9% are undecided.

Additionally, 34% of survey respondents have a favorable view of Congress, up from 26% a year ago. In contrast, President Barack Obama's approval rating is at 51% while 39% disapprove of his performance.