POLITICO Energy Inside the clean energy dilemma facing the GOP rank-and-file
May 20, 2025
James Bikales, a POLITICO reporter, dives into the clean energy conundrum facing Republicans like Arizona Congressman Juan Ciscomani. As a rising GOP star, Ciscomani grapples with the challenge of supporting the Inflation Reduction Act while dealing with the expectations of his constituents who are benefiting economically. The conversation also highlights exciting developments in local clean energy projects, including EV manufacturing and solar initiatives, alongside the political rifts within the party and recent federal actions on natural gas exports.
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Lucid Motors Revitalizes Casa Grande
- Juan Siscomani’s district hosts Lucid Motors, a large EV manufacturer that has grown from 1,000 to nearly 3,000 workers.
- This plant transformed Casa Grande from an agricultural town to a high-tech manufacturing hub, boosting population and income.
Solar Projects Boost Agriculture
- I visited farms in Siscomani's district using solar installations funded by IRA programs.
- Some farmers paused projects due to uncertainty about federal funding continuation.
Siscomani Navigates GOP Clean Energy Dilemma
- Siscomani toes the party line but publicly urges preservation of clean energy tax credits.
- However, he faces conflicted votes on bills mixing his party’s priorities with cuts to clean energy.