campaign
Harris could prioritize stricter climate policies if elected
Kamala Harris, the Democratic presidential nominee, has yet to detail her climate policy, but her history as a prosecutor suggests she might take a tougher approach toward the fossil fuel industry than the current administration.
In short:
- Harris has been vague about her climate plans during her campaign, contrasting with her detailed environmental record as a prosecutor.
- Her past actions include prosecuting oil companies and advocating for environmental justice, hinting at a potentially stricter climate agenda.
- The oil and gas industry remains wary of Harris, noting her past support for fracking bans and aggressive enforcement policies.
Key quote:
"She's the hammer. That’s what environmental justice constituencies have wanted forever: enforce the law, equitably enforce the law."
— Vernice Miller-Travis, environmental activist
Why this matters:
Vice President Harris' stance on climate change may significantly impact U.S. policy, particularly regarding fossil fuels, which are central to the global climate crisis.
Oil industry pours millions into Trump's campaign as Harold Hamm leads fundraising push
Harold Hamm, a billionaire oil tycoon, is rallying the energy sector to back Donald Trump’s presidential campaign with significant financial contributions.
Josh Dawsey and Maxine Joselow report for The Washington Post.
In short:
- Harold Hamm is leveraging his influence in the oil industry to raise $1 billion for Trump’s 2024 campaign, arguing it’s critical to the industry's future.
- The oil and gas sector has already donated over $20 million to Trump’s campaign and related super PACs.
- Hamm has specific policy demands for a second Trump term, including more federal land drilling and reduced environmental regulations.
Key quote:
“We’ve got to do this because it’s the most important election in our lifetime.”
— Harold Hamm, CEO of Continental Resources.
Why this matters:
Harold Hamm’s efforts could shift policy significantly, favoring the oil industry at the expense of environmental protections. His fundraising influence may also shape Trump’s political agenda if elected.
Related:
Harris narrows potential VP picks to climate, energy moderates
Vice President Kamala Harris is considering running mates who balance her climate stance with moderate energy policies.
In short:
- Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear, North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper, and Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro are among Harris' potential VP choices.
- Beshear and Cooper have a history of winning elections in conservative states, which could broaden Harris' appeal.
- Sen. Mark Kelly of Arizona, who has supported water regulation policies, also emerges as a potential pick.
Key quote:
"I love serving the people of Kentucky. The only way I would consider something other than this current job is if I believed I could further help my people and to help this country."
— Andy Beshear, Governor of Kentucky
Why this matters:
Choosing a moderate vice presidential candidate may help Harris appeal to a broader electorate. This strategy could be pivotal in securing critical electoral votes in the upcoming election.
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