Campaign reflects new polling showing that 84% of Californians believe politicians have overlooked ‘people like them’

A new TV advertising campaign launched today shines a light on how California policies too often force families to make tough choices about energy and other household expenses. The ad from the Western States Petroleum Association (WSPA) airs statewide with a social media campaign driving Californians to BetterWayforAll.org.

“Protecting the everyday needs of people should be at the heart of energy and climate efforts, but too many politicians are ignoring the costs and tough choices their laws create for those they serve,” said Catherine Reheis-Boyd, president and CEO of WSPA. “Californians should not feel overlooked by the politicians hurrying to impose costly regulations on the state. We all want to protect our climate, but the solutions must be fair and accessible to everyone, not just to those who can afford them.”

State lawmakers are invited to review the full findings of the poll and Californians are urged to get involved at BetterWayforAll.org. The survey was conducted by Probolsky Research and found that 84% of Californians agree that they are overlooked by politicians who fail to consider how families are affected by their policies and decisions. The findings are based on responses from 900 California adult residents. The sampling error is +/-3.3 percent at the 95 percent confidence level for likely voters. Interviewing took place from May 17-23, 2024. Among the key findings:

  • 84% of Californians feel that politicians have overlooked people like them. This sentiment is shared by strong majorities across party lines, age groups, genders, ethnicities, and education levels.
  • 75% believe we shouldn’t put environmental goals over the basic needs of American families.
  • 71% are worried about the effect of California’s climate goals on the economy.
  • 70% are worried about how California’s climate goals will affect their daily lives.

“We believe there is a better way, and that we should all be part of the important work to get this right. Our energy future must include everyone and everything,” said Reheis-Boyd. “State policies must allow for innovation and investment in all types of energy, from more solar and wind to ever-cleaner fuels of all kinds. And most importantly, our climate laws must ensure our future is powered by energy that works best for people, for families and for our society. We are proud to deliver this message, to listen and to have a more inclusive dialogue with our state on a better way forward.”

More information is available to the public at BetterWayforAll.org.

About WSPA

Founded in 1907, the Western States Petroleum Association (WSPA) is the oldest petroleum trade association in the United States. WSPA represents a dynamic membership of companies at the forefront of petroleum exploration, production, refining, and transportation, as well as leaders in renewable energy and carbon management innovations. Serving Arizona, California, Nevada, Oregon, and Washington, WSPA is committed to providing reliable and affordable energy access for all Americans. We advocate for policies that balance social, economic, and environmental considerations. Our approach is inclusive and data-driven, as we educate government leaders, the media, and the public. WSPA strives to ensure informed policy decisions that will secure a vibrant and sustainable energy future for all.

Kevin Slagle Western States Petroleum Association (916) 498-9203 kslagle@wspa.org