A recent poll from Fairleigh Dickinson University (FDU), conducted in partnership with the New Jersey Farm Bureau, shows that a majority of New Jersey voters consider agriculture essential to the state’s economy. The survey found that 64% of respondents across political affiliations say farming is “very important” for New Jersey.
The FDU Poll indicates strong opposition to using farmland for affordable housing projects. Seventy-nine percent of those surveyed oppose municipalities seizing farmland through eminent domain for such developments, a topic brought into focus after a historic farm in Cranbury Township was designated as an affordable housing site.
“New Jersey has evolved since our origins as the breadbasket of New York and Philadelphia,” said Dan Cassino, professor of Government and Politics at Fairleigh Dickinson University, and the executive director of the FDU Poll. “But people here still see farming as being an important part of what the state has.”
Views on farming’s significance show little difference along party lines. Sixty-five percent of Democrats rate agriculture as “very important,” compared to 70% of Republicans and 59% of independents.
“Agriculture’s bipartisan appeal should be appreciated as we head toward the upcoming state elections in November,” said Farm Bureau President Allen Carter.
The poll also reveals some variation by region and age group. Residents in northwestern New Jersey are most likely to view farming as vital (72%), while only 55% in urban core counties share this sentiment. Older voters, particularly those aged 65 or older, express higher concern (74%) than younger voters under 30 (48%).
Public opinion about agriculture’s importance has remained steady over time. In a similar joint poll from 2016, 95% said the industry was “somewhat” or “very” important; this year’s figure is nearly identical at 94%.
Municipalities taking farmland for housing remains unpopular across parties: Democrats’ opposition stands at 78%, while Republicans’ is at 82%. Only 13% overall believe such action should be allowed.
“Building more affordable housing is already a tricky issue in New Jersey,” said Cassino. “But even if voters want more housing, they’re not willing to let farmland be taken in order to get it.”
Other questions explored food safety and insecurity. Seventy-six percent expressed confidence that fruits and vegetables sold in stores are safe to eat. Farm Bureau president Allen Carter noted this supports messages promoted by the state’s Jersey Fresh program.
Food insecurity persists despite New Jersey’s relative wealth; thirty-seven percent reported difficulty feeding their families within the past year—a problem more pronounced among younger residents.
“The cost of food has always been a concern. Even in a state as wealthy as New Jersey, food insecurity is a concern among many New Jerseyans,” said Liz Thompson, executive director of Farm Bureau.
Carter highlighted recent increases in state funding used to buy local produce for distribution through food banks and pantries: “New Jersey has dedicated an increasing amount of funds for this purpose in recent years, and the federal USDA should do likewise.”
FDU Polls have collaborated with NJFB on agricultural polling for over two decades, documenting ongoing public support for farmers and providing input on legislative matters affecting agriculture.
This latest survey took place July 17–23 with Braun Research contacting 806 registered voters who had participated in recent gubernatorial elections or were newly registered. The margin of error is +/-3.4 percentage points at a 95% confidence level.
