Presidential candidates' policies on climate offer starkly different paths

Voters in the upcoming Harris-Trump election face a clear choice on climate policy, with Vice President Kamala Harris focusing on climate action and former President Donald Trump advocating fossil fuel expansion.

Gautama Mehta reports for Grist.

In short:

Harris supports the Inflation Reduction Act, which offers rebates for energy-efficient home improvements, while Trump has pledged to rescind it.
Trump's climate approach includes cutting regulations and increasing fossil fuel production, while Harris is expected to continue Biden's strategy of incentives for clean energy.
Both candidates' policies will impact electric vehicles, transportation and energy production, shaping how the U.S. meets climate goals.

Key quote:

“There are fundamental forces here at work. At the end of the day, there’s very little that Trump can do to stand in the way.”

— Gernot Wagner, climate economist at Columbia Business School

Why this matters:

The next U.S. president will influence policies related to energy, transportation and emissions, affecting the nation’s ability to meet critical climate targets. Their decisions will have long-term consequences for public health and the environment.

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