Climate: Common Sense Prevails, Alarmism & Spending Decline
TL/DR –
Donald Trump issued an executive order halting the distribution of funds allocated under the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022, which is tied to the “Green New Deal.” The article suggests that a permanent pause could be achieved if the Republican-controlled Congress repeals the Act in upcoming budget reconciliation legislation. The article also proposes that the “endangerment finding,” which formed the scientific basis for Green New Deal spending could be repealed, rendering the program without a factual basis and thereby justifying further spending refusal.
Trump Aims to End ‘Green New Scam’, via Executive Order
Upon assuming office, President Donald Trump issued an executive order titled “Unleashing American Energy“, in a bid to eradicate what he termed the “Green New Scam.” This directive immediately halted the disbursement of funds allocated via the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022.
Ending ‘Green New Deal’ Spending
Although the cessation of Inflation Reduction Act money for the “Green New Deal” is an excellent start, it is only a pause. The Republican-controlled Congress can permanently halt “Green New Deal” spending by repealing it in imminent budget reconciliation legislation. However, this process might encounter roadblocks.
Impact of Past Inflation Reduction Act
Since the Inflation Reduction Act was passed, over $140 billion has been expended, largely in red states. Media reports underlining the fallout of halting funds for clean energy projects may affect the support red state politicians give to such a repeal.
Political Implications and the Path Forward
With the imminent 2026 midterm elections, it’s questionable whether a repeal of the Inflation Reduction Act can gather enough votes. Therefore, halting “Green New Deal” spending might lie solely in Trump’s hands, requiring a course of action that withstands judicial scrutiny.
Scientific Basis for ‘Green New Deal’
The “Green New Deal” spending is predicated on the 2009 Obama EPA rule, the “endangerment finding”, declaring greenhouse gas emissions harmful to public health. This finding can be repealed by Trump’s EPA administrator Lee Zeldin.
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The executive order that halted the “Green New Deal” also mandates the EPA to review the endangerment finding in collaboration with the White House Office of Management and Budget. This review could lead to a repeal within a year.
“Green New Deal” Spending after Repeal
Once the endangerment finding is repealed, “Green New Deal” spending lacks factual support. Absent a factual basis, Trump could stop any further spending. As long as the finding was properly repealed, the Supreme Court may not oblige the executive branch to squander taxpayer money on the “Green New Deal”.
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