TALLAHASSEE – The latest James Madison Institute poll reveals that Florida voters are deeply concerned about economic issues, with inflation and housing affordability taking center stage.
Voter Concerns and PrioritiesEconomic issues continue to dominate the concerns of Florida voters. “The economy” is the most important issue among 35% of respondents, indicating that economic stability and growth are top priorities. A significant 48% view inflation as a very big problem, and 25% see it as a big problem. Economic concerns, particularly inflation and housing affordability, are at the top of Florida voters’ minds, causing financial pressure on our state’s residents. With nearly half of the respondents (48%) identifying inflation as a very big problem, there is a clear demand for effective measures to curb rising prices. A higher percentage of voters in Southwest Florida (55%), which skews older, and Central Florida (53%) see inflation as a very big problem compared to other regions. Concern about inflation is highest among the 65+ age group (48%) and lowest among those aged 18-34 (39%).
The inflation issue extends across various areas, with significant increases noted in property taxes, property insurance, auto insurance, and health insurance. This widespread impact on essential services and living costs exacerbates the financial strain on households and will be a factor in how they vote.Three in four respondents (75%) find housing costs in their area unaffordable. The unaffordability of housing is closely linked to the broader issue of inflation, as rising costs in one area often spill over into others, compounding financial difficulties for voters. In response to inflation, 70% of likely voters have cut back on non-essential spending, 44% have delayed major purchases, and 23% have taken on additional work. These actions reflect how deeply inflation impacts voters and their outlook on the economy.
Presidential and Senate Election Preferences
In a matchup between Donald Trump and Kamala Harris in the JMI poll, Trump leads with 47% compared to Harris’s 42% among likely voters. Trump maintains significant support in Southwest Florida (60%), equal to his support in 2020 in the region. Harris’s strongest support comes from Southeast Florida (46%) with a lead of 2 points. In 2020, Biden won this region by double digits.In the Senate race, Republican Rick Scott received 49% support against Democrat Debbie Mucarsel-Powell’s 43%, and 8% of voters remained undecided.
Statewide Ballot MeasuresThere is strong support for key ballot measures. Amendment 3 (Legalizing Recreational Marijuana): 64% of likely voters support legalization, reflecting a significant shift in public opinion toward marijuana reform.Amendment 2 (Right to Hunt and Fish): 62% support establishing this constitutional right, indicating a strong cultural attachment to these activities.Amendment 1 (Partisan School Board Elections): Opinions are more divided, with 42% in favor, 25% opposed, and a large 33% undecided, highlighting the contentious nature of this issue.
Perspectives on Education and School ChoiceFlorida recently passed universal school choice legislation, allowing parents to choose any public, private, or charter school for their children without income restrictions or enrollment limits. The poll shows that 61% of respondents are aware of the school choice options available in Florida. However, 39% are not very aware or not at all aware. Among parents with children under 18 at home, 73% are aware of the school choice options available in Florida.Satisfaction with K-12 public education in Florida is divided, with 41% expressing satisfaction and 47% dissatisfaction. Parents of children under 18 report higher satisfaction with K-12 public education in Florida. 53% of parents are very or somewhat satisfied, compared to 37% among those without children at home.Regarding higher education, 55% of voters believe colleges are places of intellectual diversity and free thought, while 27% disagree.
Technology and Data Privacy ConcernsThere are significant concerns about data privacy among likely voters, with 78% expressing concern about what the government is doing with their personal data and 79% expressing concern about how their data is being used by private companies. This widespread apprehension underscores the importance of addressing data privacy issues and ensuring transparent and secure data practices. Half (49%) of voters believe AI will positively impact healthcare, while just 23% expect a negative impact.
Florida Newcomers and Regional DifferencesAn interesting cultural finding from the JMI poll is that 45% of respondents prefer Gulf Coast beaches while 34% favor Atlantic Coast beaches. Preferences reflect regional loyalties, with Central Florida slightly favoring the Gulf by 3 points.Among those who moved to Florida in the past five years, 42% cited better weather/climate as a primary reason, followed by 35% citing quality of life and 27% mentioning retirement. These motivations highlight Florida’s appeal as a desirable destination for various demographic groups, particularly retirees and those seeking a better lifestyle.
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