A recent poll conducted by Climate Power in collaboration with HIT Research highlights a significant shift in support for Vice President Kamala Harris among Black swing voters in key battleground states. The survey reveals that one in three Black voters feel more motivated to vote for Harris after hearing contrasting messages about her climate action plans compared to former President Donald Trump.
The poll, which surveyed Black voters in Arizona, Georgia, Michigan, Nevada, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin, indicates that targeted messaging around Harris’ vision for an Opportunity Economy—powered by clean energy jobs—has effectively increased support among young Black voters ages 18-34 by +5 points and Black swing voters by +9 points.
Key Findings
Harris’ Climate Vision Resonates
After being informed about Harris’ clean energy initiatives and the potential threats posed by Trump’s policies, Black voters in battleground states showed a clear shift in their voting intentions. Approximately 80% of Black voters trust Harris over Trump on climate issues, marking clean energy as a significant strength for her campaign and instilling hope for a greener future.
Increased Voter Motivation
The poll found that overall motivation to vote for Harris increased by 6 points following the messaging. Notably, one-third of Black battleground voters aged 18-34 reported feeling more engaged and motivated to support her campaign by the end of the survey, creating a sense of momentum in the upcoming election.
Concerns Over Trump’s Agenda
The messaging detailing how Trump’s Project 2025 agenda threatens climate progress resonated strongly with voters, as 66% expressed concern over his plans. This polarization is an apparent crucial factor influencing voter sentiment in the upcoming election, underlining the urgency of the climate issue.
Demographic Insights
The data reveal that motivation among younger Black voters (18-49) is particularly pronounced, with a significant push observed among Black men within this demographic.
What The Numbers Tell Us
“The polling data is clear—Black voters care deeply about climate and clean energy solutions. What’s even more exciting is the response from young Black voters and swing voters, who shift their support toward Kamala Harris when they hear her vision for clean energy jobs and environmental justice,” said Markeya Thomas, senior advisor for the Black Engagement Program. “By connecting the dots between climate policy and economic empowerment, we can energize voters and build momentum that carries us through November.”
Climate Power’s $10 million Black Engagement Program aims to mobilize Black voters ahead of the 2024 election by prioritizing climate change and clean energy. By framing these issues within the context of their disproportionate impact on Black communities, the campaign seeks to amplify marginalized voices in national politics.
Climate Power is a strategic communications organization dedicated to advocating for climate action. Its mission includes educating the public on climate progress, highlighting the benefits of clean energy, and ensuring accountability for polluting corporations. We also strive to elect leaders who champion a healthier and more equitable future.
