joe manchin
Newsletter
In West Virginia, the Senate race outcome may change the trajectory of US climate policy
Sen. Joe Manchin’s retirement could shift West Virginia's influence on U.S. climate policy, with the upcoming Senate race set to determine whether the state continues to bolster fossil fuels or embrace clean energy.
James Bruggers and Marianne Lavelle report for Inside Climate News.
In short:
- Sen. Joe Manchin, a pivotal figure in U.S. climate policy, will retire, impacting future climate action.
- The race to fill his seat sees Republican Gov. Jim Justice, a fossil fuel supporter, leading against Democrat Glenn Elliott, who advocates for climate action.
- West Virginia has historically influenced national energy policy, often resisting robust climate initiatives.
Key quote:
"I truly believe with all my heart that God wants us to progress and like it or not, civilization only progresses with abundant cheap energy."
— Jim Justice, Governor of West Virginia
Why this matters:
The impending election will be a battleground for energy policy, with candidates likely to diverge sharply on their approaches to climate change. The outcome could determine whether West Virginia continues its legacy of coal and natural gas production or shifts towards embracing clean energy solutions. This transition is not just a political issue but one that deeply affects the state's economy and the livelihood of its residents, many of whom rely on the fossil fuel industry for jobs.
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Credit: PapaBear/Big Stock Photo
Progressive Marine veteran seeks to reshape West Virginia politics
In a bid to challenge the coal industry's grip on West Virginia, Zach Shrewsbury, a Marine Corps veteran and community organizer, has launched his U.S. Senate campaign.
In short:
- Shrewsbury's campaign follows a populist approach, emphasizing job creation over coal reliance, seeking to pivot to renewable energy sources.
- His grassroots strategy includes extensive traveling across West Virginia, engaging directly with voters and distributing essential supplies.
- The political landscape is marked by a decline in union influence and the rise of Republican dominance attributed to economic grievances and industrial decline.
Key quote:
"I am of the working class. I am from our home. And I will fight for the everyday West Virginian."
— Zach Shrewsbury, U.S. Senate candidate
Why this matters:
Shrewsbury's campaign is poised to stir significant debate on the state's economic future, especially as environmental concerns grow and the demand for sustainable energy sources becomes more urgent.
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Newsletter
Q&A: What a Joe Manchin presidential run could mean for the 2024 election—and the climate
In a recent swing through New Hampshire, the West Virginia Senator—who has pressed for more “energy security” in the U.S.—suggested that it’s up to Asian countries to reduce fossil fuel reliance.
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Photo by Syed F Hashemi on Unsplash
The coming Senate energy, environment committee shuffle
There are two top candidates to lead Democrats on both Energy and Natural Resources and Environment and Public Works.
Big Stock Photo
Manchin's energy legacy leaves WV environmentalists frustrated, fossil fuel industry pleased
Before he numbered his days in the U.S. Senate last week, Sen. Joe Manchin, D-W.Va., spent the morning chairing a hearing on abandoned coal mine land reclamation economic revitalization programs.
Sen. Manchin is the last in a line of formidable West Virginia Democrats who promoted coal interests
Joe Manchin’s impending departure from the Senate marks the end of an era for powerful West Virginia Democrats who wielded considerable power as advocates for the state's coal interests.
Top Story
Photo by Tim Mossholder on Unsplash
Sizing up Manchin’s legacy on energy, climate policy
“Whether you love him or you hate him, he has a lasting imprint and legacy," a former top Senate aide said.
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