Kamala Harris's Climate Record and Future Plans

Vice President Kamala Harris has long prioritized environmental issues, prosecuting polluters as California’s attorney general and supporting the Green New Deal as a senator. As Vice President, she cast the deciding vote for the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), the largest climate investment in U.S. history.

Key Climate Achievements

Inflation Reduction Act: Harris played a crucial role in passing the IRA, which allocates over $370 billion for renewable energy projects, aiming to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

International Climate Advocacy: At the United Nations global climate summit in Dubai, Harris emphasized the urgent need for climate action, highlighting the detrimental impact of climate change and the necessity to compensate for lost time.

Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund: She advocated for $20 billion to support disadvantaged communities, showcasing her commitment to environmental justice.

Climate Policies and Positions

Renewable Energy and Clean Air: Harris has consistently supported renewable energy. Her climate advisor, Ike Irby, noted that she would focus on implementing the IRA if elected, ensuring access to clean air, clean water, and a healthy environment for all Americans.

Electrifying Transportation: As a senator, she promoted electrifying school buses to reduce greenhouse gases and children’s exposure to diesel pollution.

Support for the Green New Deal: Harris co-sponsored the Green New Deal, advocating for a transition to 100% clean energy within a decade and job guarantees, though this resolution did not advance out of committee.

Carbon Tax and Fracking Ban: Her 2020 climate plan included a $10 trillion investment and a carbon tax with dividends for households. She also supported a ban on fracking, which is known for its environmental hazards.

Historical Actions and Investigations

Environmental Justice Unit: As San Francisco’s district attorney, Harris created a unit to tackle environmental crimes affecting the city's poorest residents.

Prosecuting Polluters: As California’s attorney general, she secured settlements from major corporations like Chevron and BP for violating pollution laws. She challenged federal approvals of offshore fracking along the California coast and investigated Exxon Mobil for potential securities fraud related to climate change.

Legislation for Low-Income Communities: In 2019, Harris introduced legislation with Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez to ensure environmental regulations consider impacts on low-income communities disproportionately affected by climate disruption.

Future Challenges and Commitments

Harris is expected to continue protecting and advancing the Biden administration’s climate achievements if she becomes president. She must counter potential rollbacks from opponents like former President Donald Trump, who has pledged to undo many of Biden's policies, including the IRA.

Commitment to Climate Action: Harris’s climate advisor affirmed her dedication to fighting for environmental health and justice. Gina McCarthy, former national climate adviser under Biden, praised Harris’s commitment, stating she would vigorously defend climate policies against opposition.

Balancing Economic and Environmental Goals: Harris has consistently argued against the false dichotomy of choosing between environmental protection and economic growth, advocating for sustainable solutions that benefit both.

Conclusion

Kamala Harris’s extensive track record and ongoing commitment to climate action position her as a formidable advocate for environmental justice and sustainability. Her leadership will be crucial in continuing the fight against climate change and securing a sustainable future for all.

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