Poll shows big marriage gap in election

WWLP TV

Updated: Jul 11, 2012 9:12 PM

AMHERST, Mass. (WWLP) — A national poll finds that person's marital status could have an impact in the general election.

A new Quinnipiac University poll found that unmarried voters, in particular women, could give President Barack Obama an edge come November 6. More than half of single voters back the President, according to the study.

Meanwhile, 51% of married voters say that they support former Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney.

Political expert at UMass Amherst Jesse Rhodes says that the marriage gap is telling.

“The marriage gap really reflects differences in individuals’ experiences with the economy. Their social experiences, and so forth,” Rhodes said.

He told 22News that married couples focus more on the economy because of their shared income and having to run a household. Single voters, on the other hand, tend to be more concerned about social issues like equality in health care and gay rights.

Rhodes told 22News that historically, women have been more supportive of the Democratic Party. But, he added that the campaign is not a horse race, and the deciding factor will be the recovery, as this election hinges on the economy.

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