Trust in Harris Surpasses Biden on Climate Change
As we approach the Democratic National Convention, a recent AP-NORC poll reveals that Vice President Kamala Harris has garnered slightly more trust from Democrats on climate change than President Joe Biden. The survey indicates 85% of Democrats have significant trust in Harris, while nearly three-quarters feel the same about Biden.
This trend is more pronounced among younger Democrats. Approximately three-quarters of Democrats under 45 trust Harris on climate issues compared to about 60% who trust Biden. Older Democrats, however, are more likely to trust either Biden or Harris equally.
These findings suggest that Democrats are beginning to see Harris as a distinct leader on policy issues, including climate change, rather than an extension of Biden. This shift gives Harris a unique opportunity to appeal to the younger, more climate-conscious demographic within the party.
Harris’ ability to connect with younger voters could be crucial in the upcoming election, especially as she faces formidable opposition from the Republican nominee. The poll highlights an emerging confidence in Harris’ approach to climate issues among Democrats.
Democratic Sentiment on Climate Change
The poll also sheds light on the broader sentiment among Democrats regarding climate change. A resounding 90% believe climate change is happening, primarily due to human activities. This growing concern has intensified over the past year for about 70% of Democrats.
Many Democrats feel the federal government is not doing enough to combat climate change. Specifically, 80% of Democrats believe the government’s actions are insufficient, compared to 60% of independents and just 30% of Republicans.
Younger Democrats feel the emotional weight of climate change more acutely. Around 60% express feelings of anxiety over the issue, while older Democrats report feeling more hopeful. This generational divide underscores the urgency younger voters feel towards immediate climate action.
The following factors highlight the Democrats’ stance on climate change:
- Human Activity: Most Democrats attribute climate change to human actions.
- Government Inaction: A significant portion believes federal efforts are inadequate.
- Emotional Impact: Younger Democrats experience higher levels of climate anxiety.
Voices from the Democratic Base
Democratic voices from various states emphasize the need for robust climate policies. Aaron Hash, a union worker, believes Harris’ speeches resonate with the right words but stresses the need for action. He hopes Democrats can regain control in Congress to pass significant climate protections.
Similarly, Alex Campbell from Philadelphia feels a sense of dread about the future but credits Biden for the Inflation Reduction Act. He believes Harris, being younger, might push for more aggressive climate policies, though he remains skeptical about progress without Democratic control of Congress.
Nikolas Ostergard, a first-time voter, finds Harris to be a stronger communicator than Biden. He hopes that she will listen more to public concerns and take different approaches to climate policies than her predecessor.
These personal stories reflect a broader hope among Democrats that Harris will lead with a more aggressive stance on climate change, addressing the pressing concerns of younger generations and ensuring impactful policies.
The Importance of the Upcoming Election
The upcoming presidential election is viewed as critical for climate change by many Americans. About half of the population considers the election’s outcome to be extremely important for climate issues. This sentiment is particularly strong among Democrats.
Approximately 75% of Democrats believe that the 2024 election will significantly impact climate change, compared to 44% of independents and 20% of Republicans. This highlights the partisan divide over the urgency of climate action.
Older Democrats are slightly more inclined than younger ones to view the election as crucial for climate change. This underscores the varying levels of urgency felt across different age groups within the party.
The poll, conducted among 1,143 adults, has a margin of error of ±4.1 percentage points. It reflects a critical moment for Democrats as they navigate climate policies and leadership preferences ahead of the 2024 election.
thomas
Is Harris really more effective, or is this just about generational preferences?
elizabeth6
Democrats need to unite on climate action, regardless of who leads. Let’s get to work!
cameron2
Interesting! Do you think this will impact the upcoming election?
leowhispering2
Harris has always seemed more in touch with the younger generation. 🌍
bailey
I’m surprised Biden’s numbers aren’t higher, given his track record. Thoughts?
ryansentinel
Why do you think younger Democrats trust Harris more on climate change?