US voters prioritize climate, wildlife, and animal welfare

Environmental challenges are a key issue heading into the US election season. As we grapple with the urgent threats of climate change and environmental degradation, we see a strong desire for political leaders who prioritize conservation.

Survey respondents were asked to rank their concern about particular issues on a scale of 0 (not at all concerned) to 10 (extremely concerned).

Among these concerns, the environment ranks just below the economy, health care, and taxes. Voters are more concerned about the environment and conserving wildlife species than government regulations, illegal immigration, and the cost of higher education.

Who we asked

This survey was conducted by Lincoln Park Strategies and Beekeeper Group among a national sample of 2,000 individuals, ages 18+, from various political parties. Data was collected in June 2023.

What they said

Recommendations

• Politicians should include wildlife conservation and animal welfare in their platforms.
• Appropriators should fully fund international biodiversity conservation programs and domestic implementation of wildlife laws, including the Endangered Species Act.
• Legislators and regulators should support efforts to value nature and ensure it’s incorporated into cost-benefit analyses for government decisions.