By Neal Broverman

Originally published on Advocate.com November 19 2012 3:44 PM ET

A new study from Michigan State University finds that 56% of the state's diverse residents support marriage equality, a major increase from just two years ago.

In 2010 only 48% of Michiganders said they supported same-sex marriage rights. At that time 51% opposed such rights — now only 39% are opposed. Read more here.

While Republicans blanketed swing state Michigan with billboards connecting President Obama to gay marriage and abortion rights, it didn't appear to work as an anti-Obama strategy, as the president handily won the state.

While residents are growing more comfortable with same-sex marriage, any legislative legalization is likely far off, as Republicans control the state legislature and governor's mansion.