Young Climate Advocates Think Harris Can Do More for the Environment Than Biden, Despite His Wins
As the climate crisis looms larger with each passing day, the chorus of voices demanding immediate and effective action is becoming increasingly urgent. Among these voices are young climate advocates, many of whom are turning their gaze toward Vice President Kamala Harris, believing she can champion their cause more vigorously than President Joe Biden. While Biden has undeniably made strides in environmental policy, particularly with landmark legislation such as the Inflation Reduction Act, young climate activists are voicing concerns that his administration's approach to the fossil fuel industry undermines these achievements.
The Biden Administration's Environmental Achievements
Under the Biden administration, the United States has seen unprecedented investments in climate action. The Inflation Reduction Act, touted as the most significant climate legislation in U.S. history, allocated nearly $370 billion towards clean energy initiatives and pollution reduction. Additionally, the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act has paved the way for advancements in electric vehicle infrastructure, public transit, and climate resilience. Despite these accomplishments, backlash from younger voters highlights a paradox: while praising Biden's legislative wins, they perceive a disconnect between policy and action, particularly in relation to fossil fuel projects.
The Frustration Over Fossil Fuel Expansion
Young activists, aged 16 to 29, express frustration over the continued growth of the fossil fuel industry during Biden's presidency. Notably, the approval of projects such as the Willow oil-drilling initiative in Alaska and the fast-tracked Mountain Valley Pipeline has raised eyebrows. Keanu Arpels-Josiah, a 19-year-old organizer with Fridays for Future, articulated this sentiment: “It’s frankly been frustrating to see that this current administration, despite claiming leadership on climate, has approved so many fossil fuel projects.” This perception has led many to question the sincerity of the administration’s commitment to tackling climate change.
Harris as a Strong Candidate for Young Voters
In contrast, Kamala Harris is gaining traction among young climate advocates thanks to her record of confronting major oil companies. As California’s attorney general, Harris took significant steps to hold corporations accountable for environmental violations, securing settlements with major oil firms like Chevron and BP. This foundational work resonates deeply with activists who are focused on creating systemic change. Aru Shiney-Ajay, executive director of the Sunrise Movement, claimed, “She has a history of holding Big Oil accountable in a way that we haven’t seen in the last four years.” Many feel that Harris’s proactive stance represents a promise of more robust climate policies going forward.
The Green New Deal Connection
Harris's alignment with progressive climate policies, particularly her co-sponsorship of the Green New Deal, has also played a crucial role in her appeal to younger voters. The Green New Deal Network, which encompasses numerous organizations advocating for climate action, recently endorsed Harris, illustrating a growing coalition that sees her as a more vigorous advocate for environmental justice than Biden. Young activists are particularly aware of the need for sweeping reforms in light of the escalating climate crisis and are hoping Harris can deliver on her commitments.
The Challenge of Engaging Young Voters
While Biden's achievements are well-documented, the challenge lies in engaging younger voters who feel that the pace of change and the scale of action are insufficient. Dana Fisher, the director of the Center for Environment, Community, and Equity at American University, points out that young people recognize the severity of the climate crisis and are demanding more substantial action. Their awareness is often coupled with a sense of urgency that can lead some to consider abstaining from voting altogether if their needs are unmet.
Responding to Youth Concerns
Harris’s campaign has indicated a willingness to build on the climate policies established by the Biden administration, acknowledging the need for a stronger stance moving forward. Nevertheless, some activists worry that in an effort to appeal to voters from fossil fuel-rich states, Harris may temper her more progressive climate positions.
Iris Zhan, a member of the youth advisory board at the Global Youth Storytelling and Research Lab, noted that “Biden is a lot more moderate in terms of his policy approach, whereas Kamala isn’t afraid to tackle environmental and climate policy in a way that really gets at the root, especially with polluters.” Therefore, the expectation from many young advocates is not just to uphold Biden's existing framework but to pave the way for bolder, transformative policies.
The Future of Climate Advocacy
As the electoral landscape evolves, young climate advocates are increasingly vocalizing their preferences and shaping the future of climate advocacy in American politics. Harris's ability to articulate meaningful, actionable plans will be critical in capturing their support. With 59% of surveyed adults in the 18 to 29 age group stating that addressing climate change should be a key foreign policy priority, it is evident that this demographic is not only engaged but also demands accountability from those in positions of power.
In summary, while President Biden has made monumental strides in climate policy, the younger generation—who will inherit the long-term consequences of these decisions—finds themselves drawn to Vice President Harris, hoping her leadership can inspire comprehensive action against the climate crisis. Her history of fighting against pollution and her commitment to ambitious climate goals will likely play a crucial role in shaping the political dialogue moving forward as activists continue to push for a future that prioritizes environmental justice.