Young Americans Still Searching for Real Climate Leadership, According to New ACC Poll 

February 24, 2022

A new poll released today shows that young Americans are generally unhappy with the direction of the country and are looking for leadership from both parties. The poll is a comprehensive look at young Americans’ views on climate, energy, and the state of the country ahead of the 2022 midterms.

In 2020, young Americans voted in record numbers for Joe Biden, in large part because of his promise to take bold action on climate change. A year into the Biden Administration, many no longer believe he can deliver a more sustainable future. In 2022, young voters will look for new, more effective leadership on climate change. 

Our survey found that Americans aged 18-30 are generally unhappy with the direction our country is headed, with 53% of respondents saying we’re on the wrong track. Only 39% approve of Biden’s handling of climate change. Yet, by a 2 to 1 margin, respondents still trust Democrats over Republicans to combat climate change. 

Despite climate policy remaining a divisive topic in Congress, our survey showed that some solutions are hugely popular among young people. For example, nature-based solutions, as well as wind and solar power, unite young Americans despite their other policy disagreements. 


ACC Vice President of Government Affairs Quill Robinson said: “Addressing climate change is a top priority for Gen-Z and Millennials. They believe a balance can be struck between the environment and the economy and want to see actionable solutions from both the Biden Administration and Republican Party. Young voters are hungry for a new generation of climate leaders.”

Key Takeaways:

  1. Young people believe a balance can be struck between protecting the environment and economic prosperity, both among Democrats and Republicans.

  2. Young people are most concerned about environmental issues they can see and feel, such as air and water pollution, and support actionable climate solutions such as planting trees and restoring ecosystems.

  3. A striking majority of young registered voters think the GOP should care about climate change, while a disappointing minority think the GOP actually does.

View the full polling and methodology here.