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.

Read more:

• Trump's potential impact on climate policy
• The climate impact of a potential second Trump term
• Harris could prioritize stricter climate policies if elected