The Brian Lehrer Show GOP Bill Seeks to Roll Back Clean Energy
May 20, 2025
Kelsey Brugger, a dedicated reporter on energy and climate politics for Politico's E&E News, discusses the GOP's recent moves to cut clean energy tax incentives from the Biden administration's climate law. She highlights internal conflicts among Republicans, especially moderates concerned about the impact on renewable energy investments. Brugger also sheds light on the contentious proposed changes to environmental reviews for fossil fuel projects, sparking debates about public health and long-term climate goals.
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Pay-to-Bypass Environmental Review
- The GOP bill includes a provision allowing fossil fuel projects to pay a fee to skip environmental review.
- This effectively enables companies to 'buy' their way out of litigation and lengthy permit processes.
Republicans Split on Climate Cuts
- Some House Republicans oppose rolling back clean energy tax credits because projects benefit their districts.
- These projects bring jobs and investments, even in red states, making the issue contentious within the GOP.
Rightward Shift in GOP Climate Stance
- Former moderate Republicans like Lee Zeldin have shifted right, aggressively rolling back climate regulations as EPA chief.
- This change challenges the effectiveness of bipartisan climate solutions caucuses.