#233: I respond to Dave Roberts' 10 questions
...........
In a recent Vox article, Roberts discusses why these 10 questions should be asked at a possible 2020 Democratic candidates debate on Climate. I first spout the likeliest reaction from the majority of candidates (The Likely), then my own alternate take (The Likeliest).
1) ...Where does climate change fall on your list of priorities when you step into office?
The Likely: We can walk and chew gum at the same time.
The Likeliest: On day one, my administration will unveil the executive orders and legislative proposals we've written up, in consultation with Congress, during our 3-month transition period, which will include Climate, Voting Rights, Jobs Stimulation, Healthcare, and the end of wasteful overseas spending.
2) ...If Democrats win a majority in the Senate, will you advocate for reforming or scrapping the filibuster?
The Likely: Our Republican partners in Congress will have a one month window during which to cooperate; if they don't, we'll advocate for reform.
The Likeliest: No, my administration will propose a science-based, case-by-case repeal that preserves the filibuster for other matters, but allows scientifically settled policy to prevail. ***
3) Assuming Republicans control one or both houses of Congress and legislation becomes impossible, what executive actions are you prepared to take to reduce carbon emissions?
The Likely: We must return to the Obama administration's policies as a first step....
The Likeliest: The only way we'll win the Senate is by making it our focus; that's why a 'radical socialist' with minimal coattails outside urban areas will lose the Senate, and a 'farmer's friend' attitude and focus will win. Winning big on the coasts, and losing the Senate is just losing.
4) ...What will you do to ensure that vulnerable communities are protected during the transition to clean energy?
The Likely: I'll propose bills to shield the vulnerable, and retrain the laid off worker.
The Likeliest: The first instinct for our administration will be to replace old with new jobs in areas affected by Climate policy.
5)...What role do you see carbon pricing playing in climate policy?
The Likely: ...One tool in our toolbox.
The Likeliest: Climate is a global problem that requires a global solution; all countries must help out. That's why a reduction in every country's military spending, with those revenues repurposed for fighting Climate Change, is the answer. And we'll lead the way.
6) ...How do you view the Green New Deal — what does the term mean to you? And do you support it or something like it?
The Likely: I do support the general idea.
The Likeliest: I support a modest version that focuses on generating good jobs in the energy, construction, and transportation sectors, coupled with three new economic boosters that allow all Americans the freedom to prosper: Free Child Care, Free Community College, and scaled, $2,020-a-year Baby Bonds for our least fortunate families.
7) ...Will you pursue Republican votes and try to secure bipartisan policy, or will you unify Democrats and try to pass climate policy over Republican objections, as many states and cities have?
The Likely: I'll be looking for the most successful path forward.
The Likeliest: The fact that we propose a modest, job- and opportunity-focused plan will mean that Republicans are fools if they oppose progress. And if indeed they do, that'll confirm their selfish, power-hungry reputation for all the world to see.
8) There are several ongoing lawsuits against fossil fuel companies, charging that they deliberately concealed the dangers of climate change. There are shareholder resolutions seeking to tie them to carbon reduction goals. Universities and other institutions are divesting from fossil fuel stocks. Do you support these and other efforts to hold fossil fuel companies accountable?
The Likely: Yes.
The Likeliest: States, localities, and the private sector have been leading the way, recently, on Climate. Those efforts can now be assisted and encouraged with scientifically sound federal policy as we clear out the self-dealing, and ugly corruption of big corporations that have been dictating government policy.
9) Greenhouse gas emissions are falling in the US, mainly because they are falling in the electricity sector, thanks in part to wind, solar, and batteries. But in other sectors of the economy, like transportation and industry, emissions are rising. What will you do to target those other sectors and get their carbon emissions falling?
Likely: ...meet the challenge.
Likeliest: The most important thing is not only generating good jobs, especially in areas impacted by Climate, but also signaling our plans ahead of time, so that the economy has a chance to adjust quickly enough. For example, if consumers know that charging stations for electric vehicles will be everywhere, and soon, and will be easy to use, electric cars will sell at a faster clip.
10) The US military has called climate change a “threat multiplier” that will increase the odds of disasters, mass migrations, and armed conflict around the world. What will you do to help the US prepare for a more chaotic world? And what will you do to help other countries and international institutions prepare?
Likely: The world needs US leadership; I'll provide it.
Likeliest: Making friends is the way mature people get ahead. Allied action is also how our world can best fight climate change. Starting with our closest friends and working outwards, we'll gain momentum by bringing outlier countries on board, strengthening institutions as we proceed.
*** Set up panels of mainstream scientific experts to weigh in on legislation that addresses science. For example, the climate fight. Allows science-based legislation with no filibuster possible. A majority vote is all that's needed to set up said panels.
No comments:
Post a Comment