New Poll: Clean Energy, Environment Key Factors in AZ Governor Race

A new poll released today by EDF Action shows widespread support for clean energy and environmental protection positions that could help either candidate in the race for Arizona governor.

Republican candidate Doug Ducey, who recently expressed support for solar energy and environmental protection in the state, currently leads Democratic candidate Fred DuVal by an eight-point margin with a few weeks before the election, according to the poll.

“Doug Ducey’s positive positions on clean energy and the environment match the majority of Arizona voters,” said Elizabeth Thompson, president of EDF Action. “Regardless of party, they show significant support for environmental protection and consumer access to clean energy.”

Ducey recently outlined his support for renewable energy and conservation in an op-ed that said “harnessing the power of solar energy doesn’t just reflect a commitment to the environment and alternative forms of energy – it’s also a jobs creator.”

DuVal also has said he intends to “bring clean energy technology up to scale by creating private-public partnerships” and that Arizona’s potential for solar energy “needs to be pursued fully.”

According to the poll of 600 voters on October 8th and 9th, Arizonans show significant support for the state’s role in protecting land, air and water. Voters among all parties are also more likely to support a candidate who wants to take a balanced approach to energy and environmental issues in the state. Arizonans also prefer a candidate who supports consumer choice in how they get their energy.

Most voters – including three-quarters (75 percent) of Republicans – favor a candidate who prioritizes environmental protection. Voters of all parties have a favorable view of “Net Metering”, a policy designed to help grow the state’s solar market through roof-top solar installations. Among voters who are not committed to Ducey or DuVal, three-quarters (75 percent) indicated support for the policy.