The Facts
Pres. Biden on Wed. announced a set of executive actions after an attempt by Congress to pass major climate change legislation was blocked by Sen. Joe Manchin (D-WV) last week. He stopped short, however, of declaring a formal climate emergency.
Biden said his administration will direct $2.3B to FEMA's resilient infrastructure program in fiscal 2022, expand the low-income energy assistance program to include cooling centers and energy-efficient air conditioners, and direct the Dept. of the Interior to propose wind energy zones in the Gulf of Mexico.
The Spin
Left narrative
Ultimately declaring a climate emergency is just the sort of strong executive action that Biden has been promising. This would be a step in the right direction toward addressing the climate crisis, improving the American energy sector, and protecting American families from oil and gas price hikes.
Right narrative
While an important issue, claims about global warming are often grossly exaggerated. The apocalyptic rhetoric of a 'climate emergency' may do more harm than good by alienating people on both sides and distracting from more pressing issues.
Cynical narrative
Although executive action on climate change will answer calls from progressives to act against the climate crisis, Biden is limited in his ability to enact meaningful change. Even if he does announce a national climate emergency, it should be taken with a grain of salt.
