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Siena Poll Finds Support for Gay Marriage While Paterson's Popularity Remains Low

By Mark Scott

Albany, NY – A new poll from the Siena Research Institute finds that 53 percent of voters support the gay marriage bill introduced last week by Governor David Paterson. Support was strongest among New York City Democrats. Thirty-nine percent of voters oppose the measure including most Republicans, men, older voters, blacks and Protestants.

The State Senate, with a 32-30 Democratic majority, so far doesn't have enough Democrats on board to pass Paterson's gay marriage bill. The GOP minority claims it's solidly opposed.

Meanwhile, the Siena survey says Paterson's popularity continues to fall. His approval rating has dropped to 27 percent. Just 18 percent say he's doing a good job.

Voters say the Governor's handling of the state's finances, his approval of pay raises for his staff and negotiating the recent budget in secrecy are the main reasons for his sharp fall in popularity.