Virginia—A new poll has just confirmed what voters made clear on Election Day: hardworking families in our community support a bold, progressive agenda that includes raising the minimum wage to $15 per hour, universal background checks on gun purchases, increased access to abortion, and action to fight climate change. Legislators should take note and be ready to pass legislation that will help all of us, black, brown, and white alike, build strong and healthy families and communities when the legislative session starts in January. 

“This poll confirms what we already knew. Families in our community want bold action that will make a significant impact in our lives,” Anna Scholl, Executive Director of Progress Virginia, said. “As legislators prepare for the upcoming General Assembly session, the message is loud and clear. This is not the time for small, incremental steps, but rather bold action that will ensure that everyone in our communities has the opportunity to thrive, regardless of race, income, immigration status, or zip code.”  

Background: 

Roanoke College Poll: Virginians support much of Democratic agenda in General Assembly 

The Institute for Policy and Opinion Research interviewed 609 Virginia residents between Nov. 10 and Nov. 20 and has a margin of error of +4 percent.

• Virginians support universal background checks for gun purchases with 84% supporting and 10% opposing. 
• Virginians support raising the minimum wage to $15 per hour over a several year period with 66% supporting and 24% opposing. 
• Virginians support regulations that may slow effects of climate change with 68% supporting and 15% opposing. 
• Virginians support making it easier for a woman to obtain an abortion with 53% supporting and 30% opposing.