Democrats frame climate action as economic opportunity in 2024 platform

The 2024 Democratic platform argues that addressing climate change is not only vital for the environment but also crucial for economic growth, positioning it as a key component of their economic populism.

Zack Budryk reports for The Hill.


In short:

  • The platform stresses the economic benefits of renewable energy, noting job creation and projected energy cost savings.
  • It connects environmental policies to Vice President Harris’s commitment to combat corporate price gouging, particularly in the oil and gas sectors.
  • Republicans, led by Trump, argue that these policies harm the economy, citing impacts on gas prices and industry regulations.

Key quote:

“. . . when we hear of potential collusion or price-gouging, we’ll hold oil and gas executives accountable.”

— Democratic Party platform

Why this matters:

Framing climate action as an economic win may broaden support for policies traditionally seen as partisan. With economic concerns front and center, this strategy could attract voters wary of environmental regulations.

White government building with large decorative pillars

What to know about the Supreme Court’s major climate case this fall

The decision could set a significant precedent for states and cities trying to hold fossil fuel companies accountable for climate impacts.
A group of runners with numbered tags running on a city street

Hot weather forces marathons to consider changes to help runners

Marathon organizers are adjusting to warmer race conditions caused by climate change. Many races are shifting dates, starting earlier or offering shorter runs.
View from a group of aluminum soda cans from above, opened

US aluminum is poised for a comeback — if it overcomes these hurdles

Tariffs and rising grid demand are spurring a revival, but high electricity costs and community concerns threaten to stall key new smelter projects
A photo of a yellow bridge crossing the river into downtown Pittsburgh

Pennsylvania AI data center developer asked Trump administration official to help loosen toxic emissions limits

Brian O'Neill asked a State Department attorney to set up meetings with officials that would clear the way for his project's gas power plants.
A group of workers standing next to a yellow truck fixing a pipe

Trump ordered to release billions in climate grants

From the water crisis in Jackson, Mississippi, to sewage problems in Alabama, stalled projects could get new life after federal court rulings.
Man's hands holding coal against a background of black coal

Pennsylvania coal industry positions itself for a future in energy and new tech

Some see this moment of rapidly growing energy demand and desire for reliable, domestic energy as an opportunity to revitalize coal’s image.
Miner working a jackhammer in a coal mine.
Credit: Maxim Gutsal/BigStock Photo ID: 317665009

India fuels worldwide jump in planned coal production

Rise in new mine proposals, mainly in the states of Odisha and Jharkhand, comes despite a plateau in global demand.

From our Newsroom
Multiple Houston-area oil and gas facilities that have violated pollution laws are seeking permit renewals

Multiple Houston-area oil and gas facilities that have violated pollution laws are seeking permit renewals

One facility has emitted cancer-causing chemicals into waterways at levels up to 520% higher than legal limits.

Regulators are underestimating health impacts from air pollution: Study

Regulators are underestimating health impacts from air pollution: Study

"The reality is, we are not exposed to one chemical at a time.”

Pennsylvania governor Josh Shapiro speaks with the state flag and American flag behind him.

Two years into his term, has Gov. Shapiro kept his promises to regulate Pennsylvania’s fracking industry?

A new report assesses the administration’s progress and makes new recommendations

silhouette of people holding hands by a lake at sunset

An open letter from EPA staff to the American public

“We cannot stand by and allow this to happen. We need to hold this administration accountable.”

wildfire retardants being sprayed by plane

New evidence links heavy metal pollution with wildfire retardants

“The chemical black box” that blankets wildfire-impacted areas is increasingly under scrutiny.

Stay informed: sign up for The Daily Climate newsletter
Top news on climate impacts, solutions, politics, drivers. Delivered to your inbox week days.