Climate change was discussed in a recent GOP debate, reflecting the interest of younger Republicans in the issue, despite a largely dismissive response from the candidates on stage.
Context: During a Fox News-hosted GOP presidential debate, questions about climate change were introduced, a first for such an event.
* The question came from Alexander Diaz, a student representing young conservatives and was directed to eight candidates.
* Despite the scientific consensus supporting human-induced climate change, there were few direct answers from the candidates.
Candidates’ Responses: The debate participants varied widely in their responses.
* Former tech executive Vivek Ramaswamy called climate change a “hoax”
* Former UN ambassador and South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley acknowledged climate change as real but downplayed America’s responsibility.
* Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis avoided the question, as did several other candidates.
Young Republicans’ Perspective: The inclusion of climate change in the debate topics is seen as progress by some young conservative climate advocates.
* Polling shows younger voters across party lines list climate as a crucial issue, with nearly 60% of those ages 18 to 29 believing it should be a priority, according to the latest NPR/PBS NewsHour/Marist poll.
* Danielle Butcher Franz, CEO of the American Conservation Coalition, expressed optimism about Republicans charting a new vision for climate action.
Looking Ahead: Experts note that acknowledging and addressing climate change could help Republicans make gains with younger voters and in swing states.
* Republican candidates’ responses suggest varying degrees of acceptance of and engagement with the issue of climate change.
* Some young conservatives want to see more specific policy proposals, such as market-based solutions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
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