Date of Award

2023

Department

Political Science

First Advisor

Dr. Mindy Peden

Abstract

Perception of climate change is often considered an issue of partisanship in America despite the scientific literature stating its factual reality. While the public sentiment reflects both people in favor of climate change policies and others in climate change denial, the geographical landscape of America contributes to the public perception surrounding climate change. Within America’s various regions, Southern and Midwestern areas face the greatest immediate climate- hardships while Northern and Western areas may begin to reap benefits initially. But regardless of region, vulnerable communities are the most at risk of climate-hardships. In order for America to approach climate change in a just way moving forward, it is significant to assess the role that partisanship, geography, media, and elitism play in forming the public sentiment surrounding climate change.

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