Coloradans are experiencing the effects of climate change firsthand, with longer wildfire seasons, warmer fall days, and shrinking water supplies. The upcoming 2024 presidential election, along with other races, will have significant implications for energy, federal lands, and climate policies that will impact millions of people across the Rocky Mountain West.
Vice President Kamala Harris, the Democratic nominee, views climate change as an existential threat and has supported funding packages to address the issue. In contrast, former President Donald Trump, the GOP nominee, has dismissed climate change as a hoax and prioritizes energy development over reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Environmental concerns have been identified as a top issue in the upcoming election, with decreased river flows, extended wildfire seasons, and droughts affecting farmers, cities, and businesses in Colorado. The candidates have differing visions, with Harris focusing on public lands protection and lower energy costs, while Trump emphasizes becoming a dominant energy producer by expanding fossil fuel production.
Climate and environmental issues have taken a back seat in the election cycle, with other topics like immigration and inflation dominating discussions. However, voters in the West consistently rank the environment and climate as top priorities, highlighting the need for a sustained discussion on addressing climate change. The outcomes of the election will have far-reaching implications for Colorado and the Rocky Mountain West, impacting water security, energy production, and environmental protection efforts.
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