No Backlash, No Retreat

This representative survey conducted by Das Progressive Zentrum, in collaboration with the Progressive Policy Institute and Georgetown University’s Center for German and European Studies, provides new insights into public attitudes toward public investments and green transformation agendas in Germany and the U.S.

Against a backdrop of political upheaval and economic uncertainty, the findings reveal how these dynamics shape public opinion. Despite setbacks for green economic transformation, public support for climate and economic policies remains remarkably stable, with no significant backlash against green agendas in either country. 

Contrary to assumptions that Trump’s victory signals a rejection of green policies, the findings show that a majority of Americans continue to support ambitious climate initiatives that promise economic opportunities. While Trump’s “America First” approach has led to the U.S. withdrawing from international agreements like the Paris Climate Accord, public opinion demonstrates that “America First” does not equate to “climate second.” Notably, 42% of Trump voters see economic potential in climate action.

In Germany, a similar trend emerges. Despite concerns about economic stagnation and declining competitiveness, almost half of respondents support substantial investment in the green transformation of the economy.

There is also broad, cross-party backing for reforming the debt brake and increasing funding for economically disadvantaged regions, reflecting a shared recognition of the need to address regional inequalities and boost public investment in infrastructure, education, and innovation.

In both countries, the cost of living and economic stability remain top concerns, underscoring the financial pressures faced by many. These findings highlight the importance of reframing green policies to emphasize tangible benefits, such as cost savings and job creation, to maintain public support.

Five Key Findings

• Strong Support for ‘America First,’ but Climate Action Retains Bipartisan Appeal
• Public Investment in Climate and Infrastructure Faces a Messaging Challenge
• Germany’s Cross-Party Consensus on Debt Brake Reform and Regional Investment
• ‘Bidenomics’ Lacks Public Awareness but Retains Moderate Support
• Transatlantic Ties Remain Strong, but Value-Based Alignment Weakens

Methodology

The survey was conducted twice—first in early 2024 and again at the turn of 2024/2025—capturing shifts in sentiment following two pivotal events: Donald Trump’s election in the U.S. and the collapse of Germany’s traffic-light coalition government. The two nationally representative online surveys, conducted by Ipsos GmbH, each polled 1,500 residents in the U.S. and Germany. The first survey ran from February 19 to March 5, 2024, while the second took place from December 23, 2024, to January 13, 2025.

Authors

Florian Ranft

Mitglied der Geschäftsleitung und Leiter | Green New Deal

Florian Ranft ist Mitglied der Geschäftsleitung und verantwortet den Schwerpunkt „Green New Deal“ des Progressiven Zentrums.

Axel Ruppert

Projektmanager

Axel Ruppert ist als Projektmanager zuständig für internationale Projekte zur sozial-ökologischen Transformation in den Schwerpunkten „Green New Deal“ und „Resiliente Demokratie“ des Progressiven Zentrums.