Bipartisan consensus in favor of renewable power is ending
Bipartisan support for renewable energy in the US is declining, notably among older Republicans, now at around 50%. Factors include negative partisanship, Biden's focus on renewables, and misinformation. Democrats and younger Republicans maintain strong support. Urban/rural divides exist in perceptions.
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The bipartisan consensus in favor of renewable power in the US is eroding, particularly among Republicans over 50 years old. Despite historically strong support for wind and solar energy expansion across party lines, recent polling data shows a significant drop in Republican support, now hovering around 50 percent. Factors contributing to this shift include negative partisanship, the Biden administration's focus on renewable energy investments, and misinformation campaigns against renewables. Younger Republicans still strongly support renewable energy, while older age groups increasingly favor fossil fuels. Democrats consistently show high support for renewables, with little variation by age. Additionally, there are urban/rural divides in perceptions of renewable energy, with rural residents less likely to see its economic benefits. The shift in energy support among Republicans since 2020 contrasts with Democrats' relatively stable preferences, except for increased support for nuclear power. The changing energy landscape, political influences, and local perceptions are shaping the evolving attitudes towards renewable power in the US.
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