Mayors Are The Nation's Least Polarizing, Most Unifying Elected Officials, Say 50+ Voters

Mayors Are The Nation's Least Polarizing, Most Unifying Elected Officials, Say 50+ Voters


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Mayors and local government leaders are viewed more favorably by American voters age 50 or older than any other type of elected official — be that person a governor, member of Congress or


the president of the United States. 


That finding and others from the 2019 AARP 50+ Voters Local Issues Survey reveal that:


50+ voters want transparency and accountability in government — and they have little appetite for divisive politics or ideology

73% of age 50+ voters are looking for leaders who care


about the needs of everyone, no matter their age, race or income65% want a leader who is transparent about how decisions are made37% seek a leader who shares their political values


50+ voters are long-term constituents

64% of 50+ voters plan to stay in their current city or town for the rest of their life85% plan to stay in their current city or town for at least


another 10 years


50+ voters are engaged beyond voting

34% have gotten involved in local community organizations within the last year24% have attended or spoke at a city or town council meeting in the last


year


50+ voters would be much be “much more favorable” to their mayors if they prioritized:

Working with businesses and other organizations to support local businesses and create more jobs in


the community (71%)Investing in services to help older adults live independently in their homes (64%)Investing in jobs and volunteer opportunities for older adults (55%)Investing more


funding in roadwork and related infratstructure to make the community safer for pedestrians and bicyclists (49%)Investing new funding into creating more low- and middle-income housing


options (46%)


Page published January 2019


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