In down economy, survey shows seven of ten Arizonans 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 Arizona 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 167,000 in the Grand Canyon state.

Findings of the survey show that 70% of Arizona seniors are at least “somewhat” concerned about the potential for EPA to raise their electricity bills, with 48% saying they are “extremely” or “very” concerned.

Regarding energy policy, 57% want the Obama Administration to focus on keeping energy prices low versus 31% who prefer that EPA issue new regulations to combat climate change. This finding is consistent among Independent voters, who support lower prices to combating climate change by a majority of 50.4% to 35%.

Respondents had a message for candidates as well, with voters preferring those who oppose the EPA regulations by a margin of 4%. Independents prefer candidates who champion lower electric bills over climate change by a margin of 36.4% to 31.8%.

“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 841 active Arizona voters above the age of 55. Party affiliation breakdown of the poll is 38% GOP, 31% Democrat, and 31% Independent. The margin of error is +/- 4%.

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

-30-