From a press release Thursday (Aug. 8) from Hawaii United for Marriage:

The results of a statewide survey show the majority of Hawaii voters support allowing same-sex couples to marry. And the number of residents opposed to marriage equality has dropped.

The margin was 23 points, 54% in favor and 31% oppose.

The survey was conducted by QMark Research. Between July 26-30, pollsters from the Hawaii firm conducted 442 live telephone interviews with Hawaii residents statewide and asked: “On the question of allowing gay and lesbian couples to marry legally, do you strongly favor, somewhat favor, strongly oppose or somewhat oppose allowing gay and lesbian couples to marry?”

Opposition to marriage equality in Hawaii dropped six percent in just six months (from 37% in a January 2013 poll to 31% today). The January poll was conducted by Anzalone Liszt Grove Research.

Rep. Chris Lee, D-51st District, a leading proponent of marriage equality, said these latest numbers, coupled with two recent U.S. Supreme Court decisions, add to the momentum for Hawaii to join the 13 other states and District of Columbia in allowing gays and lesbians to marry. …

Lawmakers are being asked to consider a special session rather than delaying until the next regular session convenes in January. …

Hawaii United for Marriage is a statewide coalition of religious congregations, businesses, labor unions and community organizations. …

Graph courtesy Hawaii United for Marriage.

—Chad Blair