Many young climate activists see Kamala Harris as a stronger advocate for environmental issues than Joe Biden. Despite Biden’s passing of the largest climate legislation in U.S. history, many young environmentalists favor Harris due to her history of prosecuting oil companies and her co-sponsorship of the Green New Deal. Harris has been endorsed by progressive environmental organizations, including the Green New Deal Network, for her strong stance on holding Big Oil accountable.
While the Biden administration has made significant investments in climate action, some young activists have criticized the expansion of the fossil fuel industry under Biden’s presidency. They feel that more needs to be done to address the severity of the climate crisis. Harris’ early career work targeting polluters and her climate platform from her 2020 presidential campaign have resonated with young environmentalists who value her commitment to transitioning to a 100% clean energy economy.
Harris’ California background, where the effects of the climate crisis are regularly experienced, has also made her relatable to young activists fighting for climate justice. Despite her shift away from a fracking ban, Harris still seems to hold a more progressive stance on environmental issues compared to Biden. Harris has secured endorsements from environmental groups and leaders, as well as support from some young conservative environmentalists. With climate change being a top foreign policy priority for many young adults, Harris’ environmental platform is likely to resonate with a broad audience as she continues to develop it during her presidential campaign.
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