Americans’ Views on Energy at the Start of Trump’s Second Term
Americans have become less supportive of wind and solar power since the first Trump administration, a shift driven by declines in support among Republicans.
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Americans have become less supportive of wind and solar power since the first Trump administration, a shift driven by declines in support among Republicans.
Overall, 44% of Americans support more hydraulic fracturing for oil and gas in the United States, while 53% oppose it.
Americans remain more likely to favor expanding solar power (78%) and wind power (72%) than nuclear power (56%).
A majority favor U.S. efforts to become carbon neutral by 2050, but few express strong interest in buying EVs or reducing their own carbon emissions.
64% of Americans live within 2 miles of a public electric vehicle charging station, and those who live closest to chargers view EVs more positively.
Just 12% of Republicans and Republican leaners say dealing with climate change should be a top priority for the president and Congress.
As the Earth’s temperature continues to rise, climate change remains a lower priority for some Americans, and a subset of the public rejects that it’s happening at all. To better understand the perspectives of those who see less urgency to address climate change, the Center conducted a series of in-depth interviews designed to provide deeper insight into the motivations and views of those most skeptical about climate change.
Two-thirds of Americans say the United States should prioritize developing renewable energy sources over expanding the production of fossil fuels.
About four-in-ten Americans (38%) say they’re very or somewhat likely to seriously consider an electric vehicle (EV) for their next vehicle purchase.
Large shares of Americans support the U.S. taking steps to address global climate change and prioritize renewable energy development in the country. Still, fewer than half are ready to phase out fossil fuels completely and 59% oppose ending the production of gas-powered cars.
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