U.S. CENSUS
The Associated Press
Data released Thursday by the U.S. Census Bureau shows married couples have found themselves in a new position:'They're no longer the majority.'
It's a trend that's been creeping along for decades, but in the 2010 census, married couples represent 48 percent of all households. That's down from 52 percent in the last census and , for the first time in U.S. history, puts households led by married couples as a plurality.
The flip in the 2010 census happened in 32 states. In seven other states less than 51 percent of households were helmed by married couples.
The reason, said Portland State University demographer Charles Rynerson, is twofold: The fast-growing older population is more likely to be divorced or widowed later in life, and 20-somethings are putting off their nuptials for longer stretches.
"People in their 20's are postponing marriage for many reasons, including money," Rynerson said."We also have an aging population, so there's more people living alone."
So. What I don't understand is why with the declining numbers of married people why anyone should give a red rats ass if gay people can marry. If no one is doing it any more and it's becoming a rare thing, why such a fuss over people who truly want to marry, not just as an expression of their love but for the same benefits accorded to people who marry, divorce, marry and divorce again. I think if nothing else, the people that are in the marriage business, (flower shops, bridal shops, travel agencies for honeymooners, etc.) should be on the band wagon trying to get equal rights for gays..just saying.
