Generations of pride? LGBTQ+ rights, sexuality, and voting behaviour in Spain

This study investigates the enduring presence of a sexuality gap in political behaviour within the unique context of Spain–an early-mover country in the expansion of LGBTQ+ rights. First, analysing supply-side dynamics, we demonstrate that political parties in Spain remain markedly polarised on LGBTQ+ rights. Second, utilising original survey data, we observe a more pronounced sexuality gap among younger generations: the youngest LGB voters demonstrate notably greater support for left-wing parties, particularly emergent progressive parties to the left of the social democrats than their older counterparts, while rejecting right-wing alternatives. These results underscore the enduring significance of sexual identity in shaping political behaviours, even in a nation celebrated for its strides in the advancement LGBTQ+ rights. © 2024 The Author(s). Published by Informa UK Limited, trading as Taylor & Francis Group.