The Environmental Protection Network (EPN) conducted a post-election poll to gauge voters’ views on the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and found broad, bipartisan support for the agency’s mission, including significant backing from Trump voters. The poll took place the same day former President Trump announced Lee Zeldin as his nominee to lead the EPA, prioritizing him to overturn several of Biden EPA’s biggest rules on climate such as limiting pollution from power plants, oil, and gas producers. Notably, nearly two-thirds of Trump voters voiced concern—even before learning of Zeldin’s nomination—that Trump’s EPA pick might “put the interests of polluting corporations ahead of protecting clean water, clean air, and public health.”
Key Findings from the Poll:
Support for the EPA’s work spans all demographics, including Trump voters:
- 76% of Trump voters and 86% of all voters oppose efforts to weaken the EPA.
- 81% of Trump voters and 88% of all voters want Congress to maintain or increase EPA funding.
- 72% of Trump voters and 80% of all voters support increasing federal funding for communities disproportionately affected by air and water pollution.
The full poll results can be found here.
New Yorkers have demonstrated their commitment to protecting the environment by passing a constitutional green amendment. On November 2, 2021, voters added Article I, Section 19 to the state constitution, guaranteeing every person’s “right to clean air and water, and a healthful environment.” This measure reflects the public’s rejection of unchecked corporate pollution and their desire for stronger environmental safeguards.
Regardless of political affiliation, the poll results reveal that voters are united by their desire for clean air, clean water, and public health protections—issues that resonate across party lines and emphasize the importance of safeguarding environmental standards.
