Voters Approve Ban on Same-Sex Unions

Louisiana voters overwhelmingly approved a state constitutional amendment banning same-sex marriages and civil unions, one of as many as 12 such measures on the ballot around the country this year.

With nearly all precincts reporting, the amendment was winning approval with 78% of the vote and support for it was evident statewide. Only in New Orleans, home to a politically strong gay community, did the race appear to be close. Incomplete returns there showed slightly more voters opposing the measure than approving it.