A recent poll conducted in Connecticut has revealed that voters in the state overwhelmingly oppose a potential ban on gas-powered vehicles. The survey, commissioned by the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA), showed that more than half of registered voters in Connecticut are against the prohibition of new vehicles equipped with internal combustion engines (ICE).
The proposed ban, which could go into effect as early as 2035, received opposition from 63% of nonpartisan (independent) voters, according to the poll. One of the main reasons cited for the opposition is the financial burden it would impose on Connecticut families. The cost of living and rising prices, coupled with the additional expenses associated with electric vehicles, were major concerns for voters. In fact, 69% of those surveyed believed that low-income families would be the most affected by the ban.
The survey also revealed that the top priorities for Connecticut voters included taxes (26%), rising inflation and high costs (16%), an unstable economy and job availability (13%), and housing affordability (9%). These economic issues accounted for 64% of the voters’ concerns.
Furthermore, 67% of those surveyed expressed concerns about electric vehicles. They believed that such vehicles pose other environmental threats, including the mining and extraction of rare minerals used in their batteries.
A majority of voters (56%) viewed the potential ban on gas-powered vehicles as an extreme example of government overreach that limits affordable choices for Connecticut families. This sentiment was shared by 51% of voters who stated that they would be less likely to vote for an elected official who supports the ban.
Karen Bailey-Chapman, Senior Vice President of Public and Government Affairs for SEMA, emphasized that Connecticut residents are already burdened by high prices, taxes, and economic challenges. She stated that a governmental ban on gas-powered vehicles would only add to these burdens and fail to effectively address environmental concerns. Bailey-Chapman highlighted the importance of allowing consumers to make the best choices for their families and their financial situations.
Connecticut is also home to a thriving specialty automotive aftermarket economy, as revealed by an economic impact report released by SEMA. The industry supports $3.79 billion in economic impact, including over 13,000 jobs, $1.26 billion in total wages and benefits, and $195 million in state and local taxes paid. The ban on gas-powered vehicles poses a significant risk to this industry and the associated employment opportunities.
The poll, conducted by RG Strategies from December 6 to December 10, 2023, surveyed 500 registered likely voters in Connecticut. It has a margin of error of 4.4%.
In conclusion, the survey clearly indicates that voters in Connecticut overwhelmingly oppose a ban on gas-powered vehicles. With concerns about the financial impact on families, environmental threats posed by electric vehicles, and the issue of government overreach, Connecticut residents value their freedom to make choices that suit their families and circumstances.
