Explore Rhode Island CD1 Candidates’ Climate Platforms

On Oct 10, 2023

TL/DR –

Democrat Gabe Amo and Republican Gerry Leonard are to face off in the general election for Rhode Island’s 1st U.S. Congressional District on November 7, focusing heavily on climate change. Amo promises to bring resources to Rhode Island, raise awareness about climate change, make the state more resilient, and apply for federal funds related to coastal resilience and infrastructure; he also supports the Biden administration’s Inflation Reduction Act and the Justice40 Initiative. Leonard, however, criticises the Inflation Reduction Act for contributing to inflation, argues that transitioning to renewable energy in the next 10-15 years is not practical, and advocates for a mixed energy policy including fossil fuels, nuclear and renewable energy.

Gabe Amo vs Gerry Leonard – A Climate Change Face-Off in Rhode Island’s 1st U.S. Congressional District

On November 7, Democrat Gabe Amo and Republican Gerry Leonard will compete in the election for Rhode Island’s 1st U.S. Congressional District. The district, encompassing Providence and the east of the state, is predominantly Democratic. Even so, both candidates must appeal to voters on climate change, a potentially devastating issue for the state.

Candidates’ Platforms on Addressing Climate Change

Both Leonard and Amo highlight climate change as a priority. They’ll need to assure Rhode Islanders that floods and pollution won’t destroy their homes and health. Amo’s campaign aims to raise climate change awareness and make the state more resilient, according to his communications director, Matt Rauschenbach.

Plans to Achieve Net-Zero Carbon Emissions by 2050

Following the 2021 passage of Rhode Island’s Act on Climate, the state aims for net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. Amo plans to encourage leaders to apply for federal funds and grants, focusing on coastal resilience, urban forestry, and public infrastructure.

Amo’s Support for Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act

Rauschenbach emphasized Amo’s support for the Biden administration’s Inflation Reduction Act, a law offering wide subsidies for renewable energy and grants for climate adaptation. Amo’s campaign also notes his intention to fight for more climate change legislation at the federal level.

Leonard’s Stance on Energy Policy

Contrarily, Leonard argues that the Inflation Reduction Act contributes to inflation, impacting middle and working-class Rhode Islanders. Leonard supports the transition to renewable energy but considers a 10-15 years timeframe impractical. He advocates for a mix of fossil fuels, nuclear, and renewable energy, emphasizing the importance of nuclear power.

Supporting Climate Justice

Rauschenbach points out Amo’s commitment to climate justice, holding the Biden administration accountable to meet the goals of the Justice40 Initiative. This initiative ensures that at least 40% benefits of certain federal programs go to disadvantaged communities for climate-related issues.

Accessing Federal Resources for Climate-Related Issues

Amo plans to collaborate with community organizations to leverage resources and funding from the Inflation Reduction Act and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, including the Environmental Protection Agency’s $2 billion Environmental and Climate Justice Community Change Grant program.

“We all need clean air and water,” says Leonard, acknowledging the common goal despite differing methods to achieve it.