Florida voters shift focus to climate in wake of twin hurricanes

Back-to-back hurricanes in Florida have driven climate concerns to the forefront for many voters, especially young Floridians, as they approach next month’s elections.

Richard Luscombe reports for The Guardian.

In short:

• Recent hurricanes Helene and Milton devastated parts of Florida, raising voter frustration with Republican leaders who have downplayed climate risks.
• Young voters, particularly on college campuses, are turning out in large numbers, influenced by climate-related advocacy efforts and their experiences with extreme weather.
• Some groups target Republican candidates, such as Rick Scott, over policies that undercut climate action and disaster preparedness, hoping to spark a generational shift in climate politics.

Key quote:

“You have all these Republican congressmen that voted no on FEMA funding.When we’re campaigning in these districts that have those congresspeople it’s an easy thing for us to bring up: ‘Hey, your congressman voted no on federal funding for FEMA and emergency supplies in your county, which just got absolutely hit by a hurricane. What do you think about that?’”

— Jayden D’Onofrio, chair of Florida Future Leaders

Why this matters:

As Florida faces growing climate risks, especially from hurricanes, voter sentiment could signal a pivotal change in state and national climate policy. Increasing engagement from younger voters may reshape how future leaders address environmental challenges.

Related:

• Hurricane Milton will be an election season political test
• Florida's Senate candidates differ sharply on climate views
• Most Floridians prefer leaders committed to climate action, poll finds