Why energy business leaders aren’t talking election politics
Sep 27, 2024
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Zack Colman, a POLITICO reporter focused on the intersection of corporate energy and politics, dives into why energy leaders are avoiding discussions about the upcoming presidential election. He highlights their cautious praise for Biden's climate efforts amid uncertainty about future policies under possible Trump or Harris administrations. The conversation also touches on the recent $9.5 million funding for a low-carbon steel project in Ohio, reflecting the industry's shifting landscape.
Corporate leaders are cautiously optimistic about Biden's clean energy initiatives but are reluctant to discuss potential political shifts under Trump or Harris.
Executives believe enduring investments from legislation like the Inflation Reduction Act will be protected, regardless of the presidential outcome.
Deep dives
Corporate Hesitation Amidst Political Climate
Corporate leaders express a cautious stance regarding potential changes in U.S. political leadership as they navigate the implications for their businesses. While they acknowledge President Biden's clean energy accomplishments during Climate Week, they prefer not to speculate on the effects of a potential Trump or Harris administration. Many emphasize the importance of presenting their companies neutrally, aware that public support often hinges on perceived political affiliations. Despite their reluctance to take sides, there is a collective acknowledgment of a trend towards cleaner energy, with ongoing investments in sustainable practices and technologies.
Investments and Future Outlook Under Different Administrations
Business executives express confidence that key investments and policies, such as those from the Inflation Reduction Act, will persist regardless of who occupies the White House. Many believe that effective congressional leadership will safeguard these initiatives, making it challenging for any administration to undo progress. Should a Democratic administration continue, especially under Vice President Harris, businesses expect further support for clean energy initiatives and infrastructure. However, they remain cautious, needing more robust funding to meet the ambitious climate goals outlined by scientists, indicating a continuing gap between investment and the necessary scale of action.
While corporate leaders from across the world were praising President Joe Biden’s climate and clean energy accomplishments at New York Climate Week, they were hesitant to talk about what a new Trump or Harris administration might mean for their businesses. POLITICO’s Zack Colman takes the temperature of the corporate energy world ahead of the upcoming presidential election. Plus, the Energy Department announced this week that it’s awarding Cleveland-Cliffs $9.5 million to begin the first phase of its low-carbon steel project in Ohio.