US Election 2024: Trump or Harris - A Climate Crossroads
The upcoming US presidential election presents a stark contrast in climate policies between Donald Trump and Kamala Harris. As the largest oil producer and second-largest source of greenhouse gas emissions globally, America's climate stance has far-reaching implications ¹.
Climate Contrast: Trump vs. Harris
Trump, a climate skeptic, has historically dismissed climate policies as a "scam" and pulled the US out of the Paris Agreement. His campaign rhetoric emphasizes drilling for more fossil fuels, touting it as a means to bring financial benefits to Americans ¹. In contrast, Harris oversaw the passage of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), a landmark climate legislation, during her vice presidency under Joe Biden. She has called climate change an "existential threat" and boasts a history of prosecuting oil companies for environmental violations ¹.
*Energy and Climate Policies*
The two candidates' energy policies diverge significantly:
- *Fossil Fuels:* Trump advocates for increased drilling, pledging to make the US "energy dominant." Harris, on the other hand, has assured she does not oppose fracking, despite previously stating otherwise ¹.
- *Electric Cars:* The Biden administration's IRA includes tax credits and measures to encourage electric car sales. Trump has suggested cutting these tax credits, potentially benefiting Chinese companies ¹.
- *Renewable Energy:* Harris supports continuing the policies implemented under the Biden administration, including subsidies and tax credits for clean energy and electric vehicles ¹.
*Implications and Expert Insights*
Experts warn that a Trump presidency would likely dismantle climate regulations and shrink or disband key climate-related agencies ¹. Conversely, Harris' campaign team has stated she intends to continue the Biden administration's climate policies, earning support from climate advocates ¹.
As the US prepares to elect its next president, the climate stakes are high. The choice between Trump and Harris will significantly impact America's climate trajectory and, by extension, the global response to this pressing issue ¹.
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