Democratic VP prospects and their climate stances
As Kamala Harris secures her position as the Democratic nominee, her choice for VP could influence her climate agenda, with potential candidates ranging from a senator confronting extreme heat to a transportation secretary pushing for green infrastructure.
Austyn Gaffney reports for The New York Times.
In short:
- Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro has pushed for renewable energy and economic revitalization but remains ambivalent about fracking.
- Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear acknowledges climate change but navigates a Republican-led legislature, balancing fossil fuel use with renewable energy growth.
- Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg emphasizes evolving transportation policies to address climate impacts and promote electric vehicle infrastructure.
Key quote:
"Our climate is evolving. Our policies and our technology and our infrastructure have to evolve accordingly, too."
— Pete Buttigieg, U.S. Transportation Secretary
Why this matters:
The VP pick could shape national climate policy at a time when climate change impacts are intensifying, affecting everything from energy infrastructure to public health and environmental justice. Read more: In the race for clean energy, the US is both a leader and a laggard — here’s how.
