A majority of U.S. voters would throw their support behind a gay president, according to a poll by NBC News and The Wall Street Journal. The survey shows that 61 percent would be “enthusiastic” or “comfortable” voting for a gay presidential candidate, whereas 52 percent feel similarly positive about an Evangelical candidate, and 33 percent would be happy voting for a member of the Tea Party.

The numbers are consistent with previous findings, but support has risen for gay candidates over the years. In December 2006, the same survey showed 43 percent of Americans would consider a gay president, versus 41 percent who reported they would support an Evangelical. The support for Tea Party candidates has dipped slightly, with a 35 percentage approval reported in April 2011 (as far back as that data goes).

However, these weren’t the only categories presented to the 1,000 people polled. Data shows that 85 percent of Americans would be likely to vote for a woman, which places that demographic ahead of candidates with a military background (83 percent) and a potential Hispanic president, with 82 percent support.

Voting preferences for presidential candidates (%)

Read More:

NBC News/Wall Street Journal Survey (MSNBC)

Americans Far More Comfortable With Gay Presidential Candidate Than Evangelical Christian (New Civil Rights Movement)

Meet the Man Making Des Moines Great for Gay Women and Men (Vocativ)