Many young climate advocates believe that Vice President Kamala Harris is stronger on environmental issues than President Joe Biden, despite Biden’s passing of significant climate legislation such as the Inflation Reduction Act. Harris’ history of prosecuting oil companies and co-sponsorship of the Green New Deal have led to her being favored by many young environmentalists. Groups like the Sunrise Movement and the Green New Deal Network have endorsed Harris, highlighting her record of holding Big Oil accountable and pushing for progressive climate policies.
Although Biden’s administration has made significant investments in climate action, some young activists feel that his approval of fossil fuel projects and expansion of the fossil fuel industry has overshadowed these successes. Harris has been praised for her early career work targeting polluters in California, and her experiences in a state regularly impacted by climate crises have resonated with young people advocating for climate justice. Harris’ climate platform during her 2020 presidential campaign, which included pledges to invest $10 trillion in climate action and transition to a 100% clean energy economy, has also been cited as a reason for her appeal to young environmentalists.
Despite some concerns about Harris’ progressive platform, her endorsements from environmental groups and her focus on climate issues have garnered support, including from young conservative environmentalists. As young people increasingly prioritize climate change as a top foreign policy priority, Harris’ emphasis on environmental issues may resonate with a broad audience. While Harris’ detailed climate platform as a presidential candidate remains to be seen, many young activists see her as a promising leader in the fight against climate change.
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