Harris holds back on climate agenda as her campaign ramps up

Vice President Kamala Harris has not detailed her climate plans since joining the 2024 Democratic ticket, a move that some strategists say is intended to appeal to a broad base of voters.

Lisa Friedman reports for The New York Times.


In short:

  • Harris has only briefly mentioned climate change since joining the 2024 Democratic ticket, focusing on a pragmatic agenda instead.
  • Climate leaders, including Gov. Jay Inslee, support Harris's strategy, emphasizing the importance of contrasting her with Trump over detailed climate policies.
  • Analysts suggest Harris is avoiding strong climate positions to maintain appeal in swing states like Pennsylvania.

Key quote:

“Nobody’s worried about how many times she talks about climate change.”

— Gina McCarthy, former EPA Administrator

Why this matters:

Harris's approach could reflect a strategic choice to avoid alienating moderate voters, especially in key swing states, where strong climate positions may be polarizing. Her campaign’s stance may shape voter perceptions in the upcoming election.

Read more: Harris could redefine climate leadership in 2024

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Utah’s taxpayers foot bill for rancher’s tree-clearing plan

A wealthy Utah rancher bulldozed large swaths of forest with taxpayer support, claiming unproven environmental benefits, but experts raise doubts about his methods.

Leia Larsen reports for The New York Times.

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Senator Whitehouse puts climate change on budget committee’s agenda

For more than a decade, Senator Sheldon Whitehouse gave daily warnings about the mounting threat of climate change. Now he has a powerful new perch.
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Republicans’ growing distrust in science is a danger to public health

A widening political divide shows Republicans increasingly losing faith in science, raising concerns about the public health impacts of this skepticism, especially as misinformation about vaccines and climate change spreads.

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Ohio town bought and bulldozed by coal plant remains a desolate ghost town

Cheshire, Ohio, was wiped off the map in 2002 after a coal plant bought the entire town to relocate residents amid toxic pollution, and today, its empty streets remain overshadowed by the looming plant.

Oliver Milman reports for The Guardian.

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Brazil faces unprecedented drought with wildfires spreading in key areas

Brazil is facing its most widespread and severe drought in over 70 years, with vast areas experiencing wildfires and river levels dropping to historic lows.

Fabiano Maisonnave reports for The Associated Press.

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Harris stays vague on her energy policies ahead of the election

Kamala Harris, the Democratic presidential nominee, supports clean energy and reducing emissions but has avoided taking detailed positions on energy issues with two months left in the race.

Brian Dabbs reports for E&E News.

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The Senate race in Nevada pits renewable energy against fossil fuels

Democratic Senator Jacky Rosen and Republican challenger Sam Brown differ sharply on climate policy and the development of Nevada’s solar industry.

Wyatt Myskow reports for Inside Climate News.

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