QuotePORTLAND, Maine - Gay marriage was put to a vote in Maine on Tuesday in a closely watched referendum that gay-rights activists across the country hoped would prove that public opinion is turning in their favor.

Voters had to decide whether to repeal or affirm a state law that would allow gay couples to wed. The law was passed by the Legislature last May but never took effect because of a petition drive by conservatives.

Early returns showed a close contest, as forecast. With 148 of 608 precincts reporting, each side had 50 percent of the votes.