The Pelican Institute’s Pelican Pulse Poll is quickly becoming one of Louisiana’s most useful tools for understanding public sentiment, and CEO Daniel Erspamer says that’s exactly the point. Designed as a recurring, data-driven look at where Louisiana voters stand on key issues, the poll aims to be issued quarterly beginning next year, tracking trends on topics such as spending limits, tax reform, education choice, and major political races.
At the top of this poll’s findings: fiscal discipline. Erspamer explained that voters overwhelmingly believe the state spends too much and collects too much—and they want lawmakers to “continue down the path” of reducing spending and eliminating the personal income tax. Support was strong for Louisiana’s existing government growth limit and the state’s comprehensive tax reform package, reflecting the public’s appetite for long-term predictability. While eliminating the income tax reduces revenue, Erspamer emphasized that real reform depends on prioritizing spending rather than increasing it.
The poll also highlights concerns over lawsuit abuse, with nearly two-thirds of respondents saying excessive litigation increases insurance and consumer costs. A majority supported limiting the state’s ability to sue oil and gas companies, signaling frustration with high auto and utility bills and a desire for systemic reforms.
On education, voter attitudes revealed strong support for parental choice. Nearly 60% favor the GATOR Scholarship Program, and over 70% said it should be fully funded. Surprisingly, 64% supported eliminating zip-code-based school assignments, signaling interest in more flexible public school options.
The poll also tested the early landscape of the 2026 U.S. Senate race, showing incumbent Sen. Bill Cassidy at 29%, followed by Treasurer John Fleming at 22%. Notably, a sizable 22% remain undecided, underscoring a fluid race still in its early stages.
Erspamer says the Pelican Pulse Poll will return in late February, offering another snapshot of a state clearly eager for reform, choice, and accountability.