Energy and the 2020 Election

New polling shows bipartisan support for American energy

For decades, U.S. lawmakers have promoted homegrown energy development for its potential to create jobs, reduce household costs and strengthen national security. New polling shows Americans also recognize the value of natural gas and oil in their lives, and most support political candidates who advocate for ongoing domestic energy production. Democratic, Republican and independent voters all agree that natural gas and oil will remain essential to the U.S. energy mix over the next few decades, and an overwhelming majority find it important to reduce our dependence on foreign energy. With smart policymaking and private-sector innovation, the natural gas and oil industry can empower our economic recovery and long-term energy security, delivering on the needs of the American voters. Dig into the data to learn more.

Natural Gas and Oil

Overall, 82% of voters across battleground states say natural gas and oil provide value to their lives. Additionally, nearly three-quarters (73%) of voters believe natural gas and oil will still be a significant part of America’s energy needs 20 years from now.
More than seven in ten voters (76%) say the coronavirus crisis has badly damaged their state’s economy. A majority of voters across battleground states believe the natural gas and oil industry will play an important role (63%) in helping the economy recover. Those in New Mexico and Texas are especially likely to say it will play a very important role.
Overall, nearly two-thirds of voters (64%)—including a plurality of Democrats and independents in every battleground state—would be more likely to vote for a candidate who supports policies that ensure consumers have access to natural gas and oil produced in the U.S. Majorities of voters across education lines, as well as urban, suburban, and rural.
Three-quarters of voters (93%) across battleground states report “producing enough energy so the U.S. is not as reliant on other countries for oil” is important. Additionally, voters in battleground states place high importance (93%) on “creating more high-paying jobs in the U.S.” and (92%) in “helping keep energy and gasoline prices affordable”.
A majority of voters, in nearly every battleground state, reports that producing natural gas and oil here in the U.S. tends to have a positive impact on our country’s national security. Very few voters, including Democrats and independents, feel it has a negative impact.

Voters Across States Agree With the Following Statements:

Natural gas and oil companies should continue to work with the best minds to develop and apply new technologies to allow for cleaner and smarter energy production. (83% agree)
Natural gas and oil are essential to a modern lifestyle. They provide the fuel, power, and products that make our everyday lives safer, healthier, and more comfortable. (75% agree)
Natural gas and oil products help provide access to heating, sanitization, and healthcare to billions of people around the world and are helping lift communities out of energy poverty. (70% agree)

When it Comes to Actions that Congress Can Take on Energy, Voters in Every Battleground State Support the Following:

Congress should encourage domestic energy production while ensuring that any energy production is done responsibly while minimizing environmental harm. (82% Support)
Congress must continue making investments in all forms of domestic energy production, including natural gas, oil, wind, solar, and other alternative energies. (79% Support)