A recent survey conducted by the Center for the Future of Arizona (CFA) highlights a strong consensus among Arizona voters regarding the critical need for environmental protection, particularly in the areas of groundwater and forest management. This consensus, which transcends political and generational divides, emphasizes the importance of these issues in the upcoming November general election.
The survey, titled ‘2024 Arizona Voters’ Agenda,’ provides valuable insights into the electorate’s priorities. It reveals overwhelming support for policies that safeguard Arizona’s natural resources and address the growing threats of wildfires and long-term water resource management. The data aligns with CFA’s longstanding research on ‘Shared Public Values,’ underscoring the shared urgency for action on environmental challenges.
Two key policy areas emerged as central to voters’ priorities:
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Groundwater Protection:
The survey found that a staggering 93% of voters support stronger groundwater protection measures and securing Arizona’s long-term water supplies, with 77% expressing strong support. Notably, younger voters (aged 20-29) were remarkably unanimous, with 95% backing this position. These findings present an opportunity for candidates to champion comprehensive water management strategies that reflect these shared priorities.*
Active Forest Management:
A majority of voters, 92%, support active forest management, with 72% expressing strong support. This majority includes a significant portion of Republicans (90%), independent/unaffiliated voters (93%), and Democrats (95%), highlighting that forest management is not a partisan issue but a shared priority.Dr. Sybil Francis, Chair, President & CEO of CFA, stated, “Arizona voters agree on key environmental challenges, and this consensus gives candidates a clear mandate to act. When it comes to protecting our water and managing our forests, voters are telling us loud and clear: these are urgent priorities for Arizona’s future, and they expect leaders to take real action.”
This survey, conducted in collaboration with HighGround, Inc., an Arizona-based public opinion polling firm, confirms that environmental protection is not just a matter of concern but a top priority for Arizona voters. The strong consensus across political lines demonstrates the importance of these issues in shaping the future of the state. Candidates are likely to feel pressure to address these priorities in their campaign platforms and, if elected, in their policy decisions.
