As the November 3 election approaches, the issue of same-sex marriage in Maine is getting more attention than ever. In a recent poll conducted by the Pan Atlantic SMS Group of Portland, participants showed a slight edge in those who favored same-sex marriage.

Although the difference was only marginal, with results showing 51.8 percent voting to uphold the law, the poll gave a glimpse of what we might expect in November. 42.9 percent voted to repeal the law, and 5.2 percent of people surveyed were undecided. The complete poll is available online at portlandpressherald.com.

The results were surprising for Patrick Murphy, pollster for Question One. Despite the closeness of the decision of same-sex marriage, he said there was a "bit of a shift to the 'no' vote."

Murphy believes that the shift might be a result of advertising from proponents of equal marriage rights.

The survey, which followed campaign finance reports, showed the group supporting same-sex marriage, No on One, had raised $2.7 million, while proponents of the veto, Stand for Marriage Maine, only raised $1.1 million. No on One's increased funding, and subsequently more aggressive advertising, may have a dramatic effect on the responses of the voters, according to Murphy.

The tactics of both groups stand in stark contrast, and may ultimately impact the results of the November vote. Supporters of same-sex marriage have publicized the notion of a "fair-minded" Maine. In addition, they are advocating for a society that protects everyone's rights equally as their numerous television commercials have shown.

Those seeking a repeal, including many religious institutions throughout the state, are running what Murphy called a "scare campaign," warning voters about the consequences if same-sex marriage remains a legal institution.

The race is close, and both campaigns urge voters to go to the polls to make their voices heard.