REPUBLICAN DENIAL
“Presidential debate shows how GOP candidates are struggling to address concerns about climate change,”
(fresnobee.com, Aug. 24)
During the recent Republican presidential debate, candidates were asked whether they believed in human-caused climate change. Not a single one raised their hand. One was openly hostile to the idea and endorsed coal and oil. Meanwhile, the likely frontrunner for the nomination, Donald Trump, actively rolled back climate protections in office.
This is a humiliating situation. Over half the country — 54%, according to the Pew Research Center — views climate change as a “major threat.” Yet when “polarizing” terms like “climate change” are replaced by green policy suggestions, like swapping fossil fuels with renewables, the percentage of supporters spikes dramatically (to 69%, in that specific case).
Putting aside, for a moment, the scientific validity of human-caused climate change (it’s valid), Republicans lack a presidential candidate that represents the opinions of a major segment of the public. For Republican voters, this should be worrying. Electability is hurting their party.
Some Republican representatives in the Valley only won in the last election due to abysmal voter turnout. Meanwhile, disagreements on what’s important prevents working across the aisle. If Republicans want to remain relevant, they need to push candidates who actually represent them on issues like climate change. In the meantime, Democrats will finally get to have a conversation about real, meaningful solutions.
C.J. Wilson Fresno
Read more at: https://www.fresnobee.com/opinion/letters-to-the-editor/article278866019.html#storylink=cpy
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