Republicans, Democrats Differ on Energy Issues

Republicans and Democrats seem to be living on different planets when it comes to how to meet U.S. energy needs.

A new survey by The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research of public attitudes about energy shows that Republicans in the poll overwhelmingly push for more oil drilling, while Democrats back conservation and new sources such as wind and solar power.

That reflects the polarized positions on energy that have divided Congress and emerged in the presidential campaign.

The poll shows that majorities in both parties say energy an important issue. But political party identification is closely tied to people's perceptions of the causes of energy problems and possible solutions. No other demographic factor is as consistently associated with opinions on energy.

(Copyright 2012 by The Associated Press.  All Rights Reserved.)