(The Center Square) − Ahead of the 2025 Louisiana Legislative Session, a new statewide poll shows voters overwhelmingly support curbing state spending, expanding school choice, cutting taxes, and tackling rising insurance costs.
When asked to identify the most important issues facing the state, voters ranked the economy first (22%), followed closely by the cost of home and auto insurance (20%). Crime and policing (13%) and education (12%) also scored high, while taxes (8%) and climate and environmental concerns (6%) ranked lower.
The latest Pelican Pulse survey, commissioned by the Pelican Institute for Public Policy, surveyed more than 800 Louisiana voters between March 25 and 28 with a margin of error of 3.45%. The findings reveal a strong appetite for fiscal reform and consumer-focused policy changes.
More than two-thirds of respondents said the state government is spending too much, with over 60% supporting reforms to cap government growth over time.
“Louisiana voters are clearly ready for a leaner, more efficient, and citizen-focused government,” said Pelican Institute CEO Daniel Erspamer in a news release. “By taking bold action to streamline state spending and provide additional tax relief, lawmakers can meet this moment with solutions that promote growth across all sectors of the economy and allow taxpayers to keep more of their own money.”
Education reform also emerged as a top issue, with 52% of voters supporting public school choice beyond assigned zip codes. A majority (61%) also backed fully funding the LA GATOR Scholarship Program, which helps families afford alternative educational options.
“Families across Louisiana are speaking up—they want real choices, not zip code limitations,” said Erin Bendily, the Institute’s Vice President for Policy & Strategy. “It’s clear lawmakers have a mandate to expand education opportunities and put students first.”
Support for the GATOR program is especially strong among younger voters, with nearly half expressing strong support for full funding.
Tax policy also continues to resonate with voters. More than half (56%) supported the state’s 2024 income tax cuts, and 55% said they want lawmakers to go further with tax reductions for both families and businesses.
But perhaps the most unifying issue in the poll was rising insurance costs. A full 74% of voters reported higher auto insurance premiums over the past year. Most blamed legal system abuse for the increases—84% of Republicans, 81% of independents, and even 61% of Democrats said they believe lawsuit abuse is a major driver of costs.
The poll also explored attitudes toward protecting children online. A strong majority believe that responsibility falls on families, not government. Among Republicans, 64% cited parents as the most responsible party, while 20% of Democrats were more inclined to support state or federal intervention. Still, more than a quarter of Democrats remained unsure on the issue.
The bipartisan survey sample included 38% Republican, 38% Democrat, and 24% independent respondents.
