progressives
Newsletter
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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
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Credit: Andrew Balcombe/Big Stock Photo
Harris secures endorsement from Green New Deal Network
Vice President Kamala Harris has received a significant endorsement from the Green New Deal Network, boosting her 2024 campaign as the Democratic presidential nominee.
Marianne Lavelle and Keerti Gopal report for Inside Climate News.
In short:
- The Green New Deal Network, comprising progressive youth and environmental justice groups, has endorsed Harris, seeing her as a strong advocate for climate action and social justice.
- The endorsement could strengthen Harris' support among young and progressive voters but also provide ammunition for opponents labeling her as too radical.
- The Green New Deal Network views Harris as capable of energizing the Democratic base, particularly among young voters and people of color.
Key quote:
"This has really lit a candle of hope for a lot of us that have been in the doldrums for the past year or so."
— Kaniela Ing, national director of the Green New Deal Network
Why this matters:
Kamala Harris’ endorsement by a key climate coalition underscores the importance of climate change in the 2024 election. This support may help solidify her stance among climate-conscious voters and shape the Democratic strategy in swing states.
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Credit: Brad Weaver/Unsplash
Pittsburgh's primary showcases progressive stance on fracking
In Pennsylvania's 12th congressional district, Rep. Summer Lee's campaign gains momentum with robust backing from environmental groups amid a primary battle that underscores the region's shifting priorities toward sustainable practices.
Keerti Gopal and Kiley Bense report for Inside Climate News.
In short:
- With the Democratic primary approaching, U.S. Rep. Summer Lee gains significant support from environmental groups, contrasting with her opponent Bhavini Patel.
- The endorsements focus on Lee's commitment to environmental justice, a shift from foreign policy issues to local environmental concerns.
- Edith Abeyta, a local environmental justice organizer, supports Lee for her consistent advocacy for communities affected by industrial pollution.
Key quote:
"For me, it’s this intersectionality that Lee upholds within her district. She represents a lot of people that live in environmental justice zones and frontline communities, and I think she gets it…she’s a voice for the people."
— Edith Abeyta, environmental justice organizer
Why this matters:
Progressive politicians and activists generally advocate for stricter regulations or outright bans on fracking, citing environmental degradation, health risks, and contributions to climate change. This emphasis on environmental justice and green jobs resonates with a district historically tied to heavy industry, suggesting a significant shift in voter priorities.
In late 2023, EHN reporter Kristina Marusic discussed new proposed fracking regulations in Pennsylvania on "Living on Earth.”
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10 ways Michigan’s shift in power could advance Ann Arbor’s agenda
Planning to lobby for changes in state law to advance city goals around human rights, gun control, climate change and more, the Ann Arbor City Council adopted a new 37-page legislative policy agenda this past week.
Hakeem Jeffries was a literal no-show on Green New Deal
With momentum behind the climate initiative, progressive organizers set up an event with Jeffries in mind. Instead, his constituents found an empty chair.
Newsletter
Time will tell if Big Oil's California election investments pay off
Some races with moderate Democrats backed by oil money running against progressives remain too close to call.
‘Sleazy backroom deal’: Progressives tangle one more time with Manchin
He forced their party-line agenda to downsize. Now House liberals are digging in against his permitting deal. But most say it's about the climate — not retribution.
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