Poll: Floridians expect their political leaders to address climate change head-on

Partisan divide on issue eroding in Florida

December 9, 2020

Today, EDF released a post-election poll offering the first look into how climate change is changing the landscape and politics in Florida.

Dawn Shirreffs’, EDF Florida Director observed, “Climate change is no longer a partisan issue in Florida. Voters are aware of the economic impact and a substantial percentage from both parties, and those with no party affiliation, expect their political leaders to address it head-on.”

Among the key takeaways from the survey:

  • Voters would be more likely to support a Republican who supports these types of environmental policies, including more than a four-to-one margin among Republicans and a six-to-one margin among NPA/other voters.
  • Two-thirds of voters overall – and about half of registered Republicans – say they are at least somewhat concerned about the impacts of climate change on the state of Florida. Voters say they are concerned by a 68 to 30 percent margin overall (38 percent very concerned).
  • Three-fifths of Florida voters say climate change is an issue that needs to be addressed either now or in the future; very few voters say climate change is not happening. Forty-eight percent of voters say climate change is a severe threat that we must start addressing now.
  • Governor DeSantis and Senators Rubio and Scott are all viewed favorably. Governor Ron DeSantis (51 to 31 percent). Senator Marco Rubio (53 to 29 percent), and Senator Rick Scott (46 to 35 percent). All draw net positive ratings.

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Environmental Defense Fund (edf.org), a leading international nonprofit organization, creates transformational solutions to the most serious environmental problems. EDF links science, economics, law and innovative private-sector partnerships. With offices in the United States, China, Mexico, United Kingdom and Indonesia, EDF's 750 scientists, economists, attorneys -- and our allies -- work in 26 countries to turn our solutions into action. Connect with us on EDF Voices, Twitter and Facebook.