democratic national convention
Democrats shift focus as climate change takes a backseat in the 2024 election
Despite the urgency of the climate crisis, Democrats are downplaying the issue in the 2024 campaign, reflecting voter priorities and a lack of detailed plans.
In short:
- Kamala Harris briefly mentioned climate change at the Democratic National Convention, reflecting its diminished role in the 2024 campaign.
- Polls show a decline in voter concern over climate change, with other issues like the economy and immigration taking precedence.
- The Democratic Party remains divided on how aggressively to transition to renewable energy, complicating campaign messaging.
Key quote:
“Very few voters say this issue is determinative to their presidential vote this year.”
— Patrick Murray, Monmouth University Polling Institute
Why this matters:
Shifts in voter priorities could lead to less political momentum for climate action, potentially slowing progress on critical environmental policies.
Related: Climate groups emphasize economic benefits in Harris ad campaign
Climate activists criticize Exxon Mobil’s presence at DNC event
Progressive climate groups condemned Exxon Mobil's participation in a side event at the Democratic National Convention, calling it a dangerous normalization of fossil fuel interests.
In short:
- Friends of the Earth, Climate Hawks Vote and Oil Change U.S. protested Exxon Mobil's sponsorship of a DNC side event.
- Four protesters disrupted the event, criticizing Exxon Mobil’s role in climate change and its influence on the energy transition.
- The activists emphasized that Exxon’s involvement undermines the Democratic Party's climate goals.
Key quote:
“I’m a Democratic National Committee member, and I am here because Exxon lied and people died.”
— RL Miller, the political director of Climate Hawks Vote
Why this matters:
Fossil fuel companies’ involvement in political events like the DNC may hinder climate progress by lending legitimacy to industries that contribute heavily to climate change. This tension reflects the ongoing struggle within the Democratic Party over how to address climate policy.
Related: Azerbaijan seeks contributions from fossil fuel producers for new climate fund