environmental politics
Environment and Energy Impacts of the 2022 Election
The consequences will play out in D.C. and in some important states.
The President’s party typically does poorly in the mid-terms, Biden’s popularity is low, and Americans are upset about inflation. But the election didn’t produce the Republican wave many observers predicted in the last few weeks of the campaign. Although the GOP will likely control the House, the Democrats have held the Senate. Here’s where things …
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CONTINUE READINGTomorrow’s Elections: What Enviros Should Watch For
Who will control the House and Senate — and why it matters. [WITH NOV. 10 UPDATE]
Will Biden be able to pass new climate legislation in the next two years? Will EPA be shut down due to budget disputes? Will he be able to add any new judges to balance Trump’s anti-regulatory appointees? Can Biden appoint new administrators to serve the next two years? How much will the Administration be hammered …
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CONTINUE READINGKey House Races in California
Three seats are up for grabs, and the races are very tight.
Three U.S. House races in California are rated as toss-ups. They could well be part of a Republican wave in November. On the other hand, if the wave falters, these seats could be crucial to control of the House, or to how much of a Republican margin Kevin McCarthy will be able to work with …
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CONTINUE READINGSenate 2022: Wisconsin
Of all the states in play, the Wisconsin race may have the sharpest contrast between view on climate change.
Wisconsin has been a swing state in recent presidential elections. The Senate race there could help determine control of the Senate. The incumbent Republican is a climate change denier. The challenge highlights his support for climate action. Ron Johnson (R). Johnson, the incumbent, has a 7% lifetime LCV score, meaning he voted against the environment …
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CONTINUE READINGElection 2022: Governors
Four tight races will have big impacts on their states.
Although their powers vary in different states, governors are key figures in setting and implementing climate and energy policies. There are several very tight races that could have significant policy impacts. They also have indirect impacts via the governor’s role in electoral matters. Elections in these four states are considered toss-ups. The Democrats are all …
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CONTINUE READINGSenate 2022: North Carolina
An anti-environmentalist is favored but the challenger has a fighting chance.
The Senate race in North Carolina may be a bit of a stretch for Democrats, but it’s not out of reach. The contrast between the candidates on environmental issues is particularly stark. Cheri Beasley (D). Her website describes her as “a mom, former public defender, judge, and the first Black woman to serve as Chief …
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CONTINUE READINGSenate 2022: Pennsylvania
Two unconventional candidates face off in a crucial swing state.
This is an open seat due to Pat Toomey’s retirement. It’s also an election that could go either way, though there are some signs that the Democrats may have an edge. And finally, it’s probably also the Democrats’ best pickup opportunity. Neither candidate comes from central casting, which makes it an especially interesting race. John …
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CONTINUE READINGSenate 2022: Georgia
The environmentalist incumbent faces a tight race.
Georgia is a toss-up state that both parties view as a must-win. I suppose it says something that both candidates for the Georgia Senate are Black, which may be a first for a Southern state, or perhaps anywhere. GOP insiders are reportedly concerned about their candidate’s ability to mount a successful challenge to the incumbent. …
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CONTINUE READINGSenate 2022: Nevada.
A tight race between two low-key candidates.
The Nevada Senate race may be more about Biden and Trump than the actual candidates. It’s another toss-up contest, though some observers see signs it may be shifting in favor of the Democrats. Catherine Cortez Masto (D). Cortez Masto’s campaign website calls her “an independent voice for Nevada who works with Democrats, Republicans, and Independents …
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CONTINUE READINGSenate 2022: Arizona
In a tight race, the incumbent faces a pro-drilling, pro-fracking, pro-nuclear advocate.
Arizona was considered a toss-up state in the battle for control of the Senate. There are signs that the race may be shifting a little in the direction of the Democrats, but the extent of any shift remains unclear. The challenger touts his MAGA credentials, while the incumbent is quietly pro-environmental. Mark Kelly (D). Kelly, …
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