Exactly a decade has passed since the Supreme Court’s landmark decision in Obergefell v. Hodges established the right to same-sex marriage, altering the course of U.S. history and sparking profound societal changes. The 5-4 ruling in June 2015 paved the way for same-sex couples to enjoy equal legal protections and benefits. However, in the intervening years, the decision has not been without its critics, as public opinion remains divided on the issue.
Recent polling indicates a complex landscape of opinions, with 68% of Americans now supporting same-sex marriage according to Gallup, a significant upswing from the 6 than 10 years ago. This shift has been bolstered by legislative actions, such as the Respect for Marriage Act signed by President Biden in 2022, which solidified federal recognition of same-sex and interracial marriages. Despite these advances, a notable decline in Republican support has been observed, prompting some lawmakers to advocate for the overturning of Obergefell through symbolic resolutions and legislative measures.
The current political climate, marked by a conservative-majority Supreme Court, has raised concerns about potential legal challenges to the ruling. Recent decisions, such as in the Skrmetti case, have highlighted a conservative inclination toward reevaluating precedents, with Justice Clarence Thomas’s opinion suggesting the court might revisit cases like Obergefell. Legal experts warn of the implications for LGBTQ+ rights, emphasizing the need for vigilance against potential reversals in the protection of same-sex marriage and related rights.