In Response: Did the Economy Kill Climate Change?

In response to the posting on "did the economy kill climate change," I posit that the economy has risen to an important status in the minds of many Americans but has not killed or even slowed the issue. The presidential debate last night shifted more toward economic matters with only one question asked by an audience member on the environment. Other side commentary by the candidates did focus on our "energy independence" and need for alternative fuels.

The reason that I suggest that the economy has not "trumped" climate change follows along a few lines of reasoning. As a former political scientist, public opinion polls always show the "economy" as one of the most important issues being on the minds of many Americans. At both the state and national level - unemployment, taxes, and a whole grouping of other issues that make up the "economy" usually ranks far above any other issue. I do grant the fact that is has risen in importance, but it will always be one of the most important issues.

My second line of reasoning follows along the lines that the environment in general and climate change in particular will always be very important issues that do not garner much attention in opinion polls. As an example, the 1994 congressional elections brought a sweeping change to the politics in Washington. As Republicans in Congress started pushing against and trying to undo the golden era environmental laws of the 1960s, the public cried out against them. Republicans soon learned their lesson that even though public opinion on the environment was a lower ranked issue, they could not start tearing down old protections.

Finally, and most importantly, many agencies in Washington are planning climate change strategies as we speak. Unfortunately, they are limited in their ability to act on any initiatitives because of the current administration, but they are on their seats waiting for January 20th to roll around. These agencies are well aware of the issues and will be taking the initiative when new leadership enters Washington.

Jason R. Bossie
H. John Heinz III School of Public Policy and Management
President, Heinz Environmental Policy Group