The laws also often highlighted the economic benefits of clean energy, like new jobs and lower electricity bills. And they were crafted in a way that didn’t conflict with conservative values, such as property rights or free markets.
One example Marshall and Burgess point to is the Energy Freedom Act in South Carolina, passed in 2019. The law allowed homeowners to install solar panels on their roofs and sell the excess electricity back to the grid. The bill was backed by a coalition of conservative groups, environmental organizations, and solar companies, showing that climate action can bring together unlikely allies.
But even as some Republicans inch toward climate action, many in the party remain staunchly opposed. The fossil fuel industry wields considerable influence over GOP politicians, and climate denialism remains rampant among conservative voters. Overcoming these obstacles will require a concerted effort to change minds and build consensus.
Still, the fact that some Republicans are willing to engage on climate change offers a glimmer of hope for the future. As the impacts of global warming become increasingly severe, finding common ground on solutions will be crucial. And if the America First approach can deliver tangible benefits for both the economy and the environment, perhaps even skeptics will come around to the idea that tackling climate change is a bipartisan issue.
As the Biden administration prepares to take office, the push for climate action from unexpected quarters could provide a much-needed boost to efforts to address this urgent challenge. Whether it’s through federal legislation or state-level initiatives, the momentum for cleaner, more sustainable energy solutions is building. And as the American Conservation Coalition argues, now is the time to seize the opportunity to lead in the clean energy arms race. In a recent development, bipartisan support for bills in Congress has been linked to a focus on “economic justice” rather than divisive cultural issues. By emphasizing policies that aim to help lower-income individuals, lawmakers are able to find common ground across party lines. According to experts, this approach can help depolarize the political landscape and move away from the contentious culture wars that often dominate discourse.
One area where bipartisan cooperation has been observed is in discussions around climate change. While Republican politicians are often hesitant to align themselves with Democratic positions on this issue, there are some who are taking a conservative approach to addressing environmental concerns. Representative John Curtis from Utah, for example, has founded the Conservative Climate Caucus to encourage dialogue among House Republicans and develop conservative-friendly solutions to climate change. The caucus, which now boasts 85 members, aims to offer alternatives to what they see as “radical progressive climate proposals” that could have negative economic and security implications.
Despite the challenges posed by a potential Trump administration that may roll back regulations, experts believe that U.S. greenhouse gas emissions will continue to decrease in the coming years. This is due in part to efforts by states and businesses to reduce carbon emissions. Additionally, climate policies passed during the Biden administration, some of which garnered Republican support, may be safeguarded. The Inflation Reduction Act, for example, which invests in green technologies, stands to benefit many Republican districts. Analysts suggest that Biden’s climate policies are well-designed for bipartisanship, making it possible for them to survive potential changes in leadership.
Overall, the push for bipartisan cooperation on issues like economic justice and climate change is seen as essential for long-term progress. While there may be skepticism about engaging with Republicans on certain topics, many believe that finding common ground is crucial for advancing meaningful policies. By focusing on shared goals and pragmatic solutions, lawmakers can work together to address pressing challenges and move the country forward.
