If you think rural voters don’t care about climate, think again. Fifty-nine percent of voters in rural counties in eight states say that if we address climate change the right way, it will improve America’s competitiveness and make the United States a leader in clean energy and technology. That includes 53% of rural voters in Ohio, where tonight’s debate is being held. While it’s unlikely that climate will get much air-time tonight, it’s not far from voters’ minds. So we’re back this week with tips on how to talk about climate with rural Americans, based on research we conducted with the One Country Project.
We know that climate change and the transition to clean energy will impact all Americans, particularly those in rural areas. But people in these communities are too often missing from these policy debates.
In a new poll we conducted with One Country Project, we find a majority of rural Americans in Michigan, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois, Iowa, Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Alabama support efforts to address climate change if done in a way that improves US competitiveness. This poll provides valuable insight for policymakers and candidates to talk to rural voters about climate.
Some of the key takeaways:
54% say climate change is a problem that’s already causing serious impacts.
They don’t believe their way of life is being considered by Pres. Trump (54%), Republicans (58%) or Democrats (62%) when these officials talk about climate change.
64% would be supportive of climate action if it protected jobs or created new jobs in their communities.
Read our new memo to get the full picture, as well as this message guidance memo that helps elected officials avoid some pitfalls when discussing climate with voters and constituents.
And share:
As always, let’s keep the conversation going,
Jared
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