In down economy, survey shows three out of four North Carolinians worry about the cost of new EPA regulations on their energy bill. Candidates who oppose EPA stand to gain.

(Alexandria, Virginia) – A new survey commissioned by the non-partisan 60 Plus Association reveals a strong majority of North Carolina senior voters are concerned about the effect that sweeping new EPA regulations on power plants will have on the cost of energy and higher electricity bills. 60 Plus touts the support of 7.2 million senior supporters nationally, including more than 253,000 in the Tar Heel state.

Findings of the survey show that 74% of North Carolina seniors are at least “somewhat” concerned about the potential for EPA to raise their electricity bills, with a 54% majority saying they are “extremely” or “very” concerned.

Regarding energy policy, 63% want the Obama Administration to focus on keeping energy prices low versus 25% who prefer that EPA issue new regulations to combat climate change, a finding consistent with a plurality of Democrat voters. Among Independent voters, 65.8% support lower prices to combating climate change.

Respondents had a message for candidates as well, with voters preferring those who oppose the EPA regulations by 8%. Only 46.8% of Democrat voters were certain to prefer candidates who championed climate change over lower energy costs.

“Seniors are sending a strong message to the White House that they do not support these radical environmental proposals which will hurt the poor and our most vulnerable,” said 60 Plus Chairman Jim Martin. “Seniors, like most everyone else in the current economic climate, are struggling to get by and treading water financially. They need a lifeline, but instead they’re being thrown an anchor with these new government mandates.”

The poll surveyed 719 active North Carolina voters above the age of 55. Party affiliation breakdown of the poll is 33% GOP, 41% Democrat, and 26% Independent. The margin of error is +/- 4%.

The poll results can be found here https://www.60plus.org/files/EPA_Poll_NC.pdf

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