A new poll released today by the Michigan League of Conservation Voters finds climate change and the environment are key issues among Michigan voters. The results of this poll come just a week ahead of the second round of Democratic presidential debates to be hosted in Detroit.
During the first debate, many conservation organizations and leaders were disappointed only 15 minutes over two nights in Miami were spent discussing climate change.
“Here in Michigan, we are feeling the impacts of climate change right now with record-high water levels, toxic algae blooms and extreme weather that knocks out power for days,” said Lisa Wozniak, executive director of the Michigan League of Conservation Voters. “The lack of attention to climate change at the last debates in Miami was a missed opportunity, which is why we are calling on candidates in Detroit to lay out bold plans for tackling climate change and make it a top priority.”
Key findings of the poll include:
- 77% of respondents believe the environment and climate change are important issues
- By 14 percentage points, Michigan voters disapprove of the job President Donald Trump is doing on the environment and climate change
- 15% more respondents said they trust Democrats more than Republicans on the environment and climate change
- Respondents support moving to a completely clean energy economy by 2050 by a 2:1 margin (53-25)
A coalition of Michigan LCV, environmental justice advocates, labor groups and more are holding rallies and marches ahead of the debates in Detroit to urge candidates to make climate change a top priority and support the good, green jobs that come with transitioning to cleaner energy sources.
The first rally and march – focused on climate change, access to clean drinking water and livable wages – will start at 4 p.m. July 30 at Cass Park in downtown Detroit. There will be live music acts, speakers and other activities before the crowd marches to Fox Theater.
These “Make Detroit the Engine for the Green New Deal” events are taking place July 30 and July 31. For more information, visit changethedebate.org.
