Kamala Harris’ Senate work reveals her environmental priorities

Kamala Harris’ time in the Senate highlights her focus on environmental issues like Superfund sites, nuclear waste and invasive species, which provide insight into her potential presidency.

Robin Bravender reports for E&E News.

In short:

• Harris emphasized cleaning up Superfund sites, particularly in California, and criticized the slow progress of these efforts.
• She raised concerns about nuclear waste disposal, specifically the risks posed by the San Onofre plant in San Diego.
• Harris addressed the threat of invasive species, like quagga mussels, and pressed for better management and funding to combat them.

Key quote:

“Our government should not pretend that PFAS contamination is not happening, and we should do something about it.”

— Kamala Harris, U.S. Vice President

Why this matters:

Kamala Harris’ Senate record suggests she will prioritize aggressive action on environmental cleanup and regulation. Her positions on these issues could shape national policy if she wins the presidency.

Be sure to see: Harris could expand environmental justice efforts as president