U.S. Rep. John Curtis, known for his climate advocacy, won his primary, positioning himself for a U.S. Senate seat.
Curtis founded the Conservative Climate Caucus to promote Republican engagement in climate science and bipartisan solutions.
His legislative future may include the "PROVE IT Act," focused on studying carbon intensity of U.S. products.
Key quote:
“Does it verify or affirm that you can have a more thoughtful or nuanced position on climate issues and energy issues and still get elected statewide in a conservative state? Yes.”
— U.S. Rep. Garret Graves (R-La), ranking member of the Select Committee on the Climate Crisis
Why this matters:
Curtis' win could lead to greater bipartisan cooperation on climate issues in a traditionally conservative state. His efforts to shift Republican perspectives on climate policy may impact national discussions and legislative actions.
The House lawmaker joins a crowded field to succeed Sen. Mitt Romney, who is retiring. Two conservative climate groups have already backed his campaign.
Climate change activists and experts fear that the United States may lose its momentum on cutting climate-change-causing greenhouse gases once Republicans take control of the House of Representatives in January.
“I think it’s incumbent on Republicans to join our Democratic colleagues in finding paths forward — paths forward on methane and other issues,” the Utah Republican said.
