WASHINGTON, DC — A new poll conducted by Selzer and Company and released by Mediacom and the Des Moines Register yesterday showed 71 percent of Iowans support ethanol and the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS). More importantly Republicans’ support for the federal policy has grown since the Iowa caucuses. In a Des Moines Register/Bloomberg poll this past December, Republicans surveyed supported the RFS by 61 percent. The most recent poll conducted by the Des Moines Register/Mediacom showed a five percent growth in support among Republicans to 66 percent, while support among Democrats stayed consistent.
“Iowans know ethanol and the RFS are allowing America’s farmers and innovators to produce clean, secure, renewable fuel right here at home that reduces toxic emissions and is better for the air we all breathe. The immense benefits and potential of biofuels, like ethanol, plays a critical role in America’s energy policy and in developing a 21st century fuel for 21st century vehicles,” noted Tom Buis, co-chair of Growth Energy.
Buis added, “Contrary to the oil industry spin, this poll reinforces the fact that the issue gained ground with Iowans during the 2016 caucuses and now they support it in even greater numbers than before. The relevancy of the issue is why an overwhelming 83 percent of Iowans caucused for pro-RFS candidates in 2016, a higher percentage than in 2012.”
Furthermore, as the Des Moines Register highlighted overwhelming support for the RFS, regardless of political party affiliation, noting that 66 percent of Republicans, 76 percent of Democrats and 71 percent of independents are in favor of the RFS. Additionally, the Des Moines Register noted that, “Iowans who consider themselves tea party supporters also like it, with 64 percent in favor.”
Click HERE to view the Des Moines Register article explaining the results of the poll.
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