A new poll by Public Policy Polling shows that nearly half of Hawaii voters want same-sex marriage to be legal. 49 percent are in favor of legalizing same sex marriage. 40 percent of voters want it to remain illegal. 11 percent said they are not sure.

The sentiment in favor of legal equality grows tremendously when civil unions are included as an option.

77 percent support gay couples having some kind of legal recognition. Of those who support same-sex marriage or civil unions, 90 percent are Democrats, 77 percent are independents and 59% are Republicans.