Harris’s Growing Political Opportunity
With President Joe Biden bowing out of the 2024 race, Vice President Kamala Harris’s prospects of becoming the next U.S. president have risen significantly. As the U.S. remains a major player in global climate policy, Harris’s stance on environmental issues is now under intense scrutiny. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez has expressed strong support for Harris, highlighting her track record on climate action.
Biden’s Climate Legacy and Harris’s Role
Biden has made substantial strides in climate policy, including the landmark Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) of 2022, which promises significant investments in renewable energy and climate resilience. On his first day in office, Biden rejoined the Paris Agreement, reinforcing U.S. commitment to global climate goals. As his vice president, Harris has been a key ally in advancing these objectives and is expected to build on this green legacy.
Harris’s Environmental Record
Kamala Harris’s previous roles offer insights into her environmental priorities. As California Attorney General, she tackled major cases against fossil fuel companies and secured substantial settlements for environmental violations. Her tenure as San Francisco’s District Attorney saw the creation of an environmental justice unit, aimed at addressing crimes against vulnerable communities. This history suggests a robust stance on environmental protection.
Positions from Harris’s Presidential Bid
During her 2019 presidential campaign, Harris proposed a climate pollution fee to penalize greenhouse gas emitters and advocated for stricter enforcement against fossil fuel companies. She also opposed fracking and offshore drilling and supported banning fossil fuel leases on public lands. Although she has moderated some of these positions while supporting Biden, her earlier proposals reflect a strong commitment to climate action.
Support for the Green New Deal
Harris endorsed the Green New Deal, an ambitious plan to transition the U.S. to 100% clean energy within a decade. This proposal, championed by AOC and Senator Edward Markey, aligns with Harris’s vision for a comprehensive green economy. Despite some reservations, climate activists continue to hope that Harris will advocate strongly for this trans-formative agenda.
SOURCE: Ref Image from Austin American Statesman
Whether writing about complex technical topics or breaking news stories, my writing is always clear, concise, and engaging. My dedication to my craft and passion for storytelling have earned me a reputation as a highly respected article writer.