Florida Republicans Cite Homeowners' Insurance Among Top Economic Concerns
A recent University of North Florida Public Opinion Research Lab survey highlights significant concerns among Florida Republicans regarding homeowners' insurance, with one in five citing it as their most pressing issue. This concern is even more pronounced among voters aged 65 and older, of whom 26% identified property insurance as a primary concern. Alongside insurance, other key economic challenges include housing costs, which 16% of respondents prioritized, and economic issues such as jobs and inflation (13%), followed by property taxes at 12%. Immigration remains a notable issue for 15% of respondents, illustrating a complex landscape of voter priorities.
Polling Director Michael Binder noted that housing costs, property taxes, and property insurance have consistently been top concerns for Florida Republicans over recent years. When these issues are combined, nearly half (48%) of Republican voters express significant concern, marking an increase from 36% earlier in the year. Governor Ron DeSantis has emphasized immigration reform, gaining approval from 65% of Republican respondents for measures such as the Alligator Alcatraz detention facility for immigrants awaiting deportation.
Despite the prominence of immigration in political discourse, economic issues maintain strong salience among voters. The property insurance market in Florida is described as particularly complex, with ongoing efforts to increase private insurer participation and reduce reliance on Citizens Property Insurance Corporation, the state's insurer of last resort. Governor DeSantis has advocated for property tax reforms, including proposals to reduce or eliminate these taxes, a move supported by 63% of Republican respondents according to the poll.
The survey reflects the broader economic challenges faced by Florida Republicans, encompassing insurance, housing, and taxation issues. These topics are likely to influence policy-making and electoral considerations as the state approaches key political milestones. The findings underscore the intersection of economic and regulatory matters shaping voter sentiment in Florida, particularly within the Republican base.
The poll surveyed 797 active registered Republican voters between July 14 and July 22, providing a focused snapshot of constituent priorities. Understanding these concerns is essential for insurers, policymakers, and stakeholders operating within Florida's dynamic property insurance and housing markets, as well as broader economic policy spheres.