POLITICO Energy Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse on countering Trump 2.0
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Jan 23, 2025 Senator Sheldon Whitehouse from Rhode Island, a leading voice on climate issues, joins the conversation. He discusses the implications of Trump's energy policy, particularly the withdrawal from the Paris Agreement and its effects on clean energy. They explore the legal ramifications of executive orders on federal funding and confirm the urgent need for climate regulations. Whitehouse also critiques Democrats' messaging strategies, emphasizing the importance of linking climate change to economic impacts for better voter engagement.
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Social Cost of Carbon Attack
- Trump attacking the social cost of carbon is the most consequential short-term action.
- This undermines market signals and the fossil fuel industry's "free to pollute" model.
Offshore Wind Blockade
- Trump's halting of offshore wind permitting is driven by the natural gas industry's interests.
- They benefit directly when clean energy alternatives are delayed.
Funding Pause Concerns
- Trump's pausing of Inflation Reduction Act and infrastructure law funds raises separation of powers concerns.
- Impoundment could affect senior Republican appropriators and earmarks.