Energy, and specifically what role natural gas will play in America’s future, is an increasingly important topic this election cycle, as is evident in the many polls conducted in recent months. As a result, energy-rich swing states have received increased focus as we get closer to November, and as one recent survey confirms, voters and likely voters in these states continue to be supportive of developing oil and natural gas.
The Epoch Times surveyed 3,631 voters and likely voters across America’s “Rust Belt” – Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin – from September 11 to September 15 on the presidential candidates and various prominent issues this election cycle, including energy. Notably, 42 percent of respondents answered they support “fracking as a means of increasing oil and natural gas production in the U.S.”
| Do you support or oppose fracking as a means of increasing oil and natural gas production in the U.S.? | |||
| All Respondents | Registered Voters | Likely Voters | |
| Support | 42.30% | 39.4% | 46.46% |
| Oppose | 33.20% | 33.5% | 32.6% |
| Undecided | 24.50% | 27% | 20.8% |
While the Epoch Times poll differs slightly from other recent polling in that it specifically addressed fracking where others have focused on natural gas, the findings are similar: There is bipartisan support for continued U.S. oil and natural gas development.
Morning Consult’s recent poll, conducted with the American Petroleum Institute, also surveyed respondents in 12 energy-rich swing states. The polling found that 64 percent of respondents are likely to vote for a candidate who “supports policies that ensure consumers continue to have access to natural gas and oil produced in the U.S.” Additionally, 75 percent agree that natural gas is “essential to a modern lifestyle” and 73 percent believe oil and natural gas will play a significant role in meeting energy needs in 20 years.
And earlier this month, Brunswick Group’s polling found that 55 percent of respondents – both Democrats and Republicans – favor increasing the use of natural gas. According to the poll, 68 percent of Democrats and 88 percent of Republicans feel that natural gas plays a “vital role” in addressing climate change.
These views are also prevalent across age ranges as another Morning Consult poll, conducted with the American Gas Association, showed earlier this year. As AGA explained, the poll found:
“In this time of economic uncertainty, Millennial and Gen Z voters have made it clear: America’s plan to address climate change must include an affordable energy solution like natural gas.”
The U.S. oil and natural gas industry has a vital role to play in both ensuring Americans have access to affordable, reliable energy and helping the country to lower its emissions – and as is evident by these polls, it’s an issue voters can agree on regardless of political affiliation.
This post appeared first on Energy In Depth.