Environmental issues such as clean air and water are major concerns of voters as this year's elections approach, according to a poll conducted for the League of Conservation Voters. Sixty-four percent of voters surveyed view environmental issues as very or somewhat important, according to the poll. Voters not only favor candidates who support stronger environmental protections and enforcement, but they are also much more likely to oppose candidates who would turn back protections for our air, water and open space. Voters of all political parties and ideologies overwhelmingly support the notion that a clean environment and a strong economy can flourish together. Seventy-eight percent of those polled say they favor candidates who vote for the environment over those who vote for fewer government regulations.
Voters also believe government regulations and enforcement of environmental laws are important.
The poll indicates that 77 percent of voters want tougher environmental laws and stricter enforcement. An overwhelming 92 percent of respondents agree that polluters or other environmental law-breakers should pay fines. And 89 percent of respondents believe businesses that pollute should pay higher fees for business and dumping permits to help pay for environmental law enforcement. More than 60 percent of those polled perceive pro-environment candidates as responsible and trustworthy. The same positive traits are not attributed to candidates who support reducing environmental regulations on business.