New Poll Shows Americans Back the Value of Pesticides in Protecting Food Affordability and Choice
Data reveals the majority of Americans do not view pesticides as a priority issue for the Make America Healthy Again Commission
ARLINGTON, VA – A new national survey of 1,000 registered voters commissioned by CropLife America (CLA) reveals strong trust in American farmers and public recognition of the benefits pesticides provide in making food more affordable and accessible.
The May 2025 poll was conducted by Adam Geller of National Research Inc., who served as one of President Trump’s pollsters in 2016 and was one of the lead pollsters for Trump-endorsed SuperPACS in 2020 and 2024. The poll found that nearly two-thirds of Americans approve of the job American farmers are doing, underscoring their vital role in feeding the nation. Importantly, an overwhelming majority of voters agree that when farmers use tools like pesticides to control weeds, crop diseases, and insect pests, it leads to greater food choices and lower grocery costs for families.
The data also reveals that concerns about pesticide use are low among the public, with only 4% agreeing that banning or restricting these products should be the highest priority for the forthcoming Make America Healthy Again Commission’s initial assessment. This was compared to 27% who prioritize children and teen mental health, and 24% who prioritize teaching children about healthy food choices.
“This poll confirms what America’s farmers have known for generations: the public trusts them and understands that pesticides are an essential tool for growing the food we all rely on,” said CLA President and CEO Alexandra Dunn. “When we protect American crops, we protect American families by keeping prices down and helping ensure an affordable and abundant supply of fruits, vegetables, and grains.”
“As families continue to strain to put fresh, healthy food on their tables, Americans recognize that pesticides are essential tools for an abundant and cost-effective food supply,” said pollster Adam Geller.
A plurality of voters support farmers’ current use of pesticides. After learning more about the science supporting pesticide use and how extensively well-regulated they already are, this jumps 10-points from initial support, with a corresponding increase in trust that farmers use these tools responsibly.