As Americans, we have been horrified by the devastation wrought by Hurricane Helene. And I’m sure many of us are doing what we can to send help to our fellow citizens.
Fortunately, using FEMA funds, the Biden/Harris administration continues to respond effectively, receiving praise from the affected governors. We can be proud that we come together as a nation for the greater good of all citizens after these catastrophes.
However, Project 2025, the MAGA Republican project to prepare for the next Republican administration, threatens to dismantle this compassionate and coordinated response to severe weather events and emergency response.
Project 2025 includes a proposal to dismantle the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Agency (NOAA), which includes the National Hurricane Center. Project 2025 authors complain that NOAA creates “alarm” about climate change.
As President, Trump rolled back over 125 rules designed to lower emissions and protect the environment. So, Project 2025 provides a blueprint for him to continue to gut policies that protect the environment, especially since Trump believes that climate change is a “hoax”.
Who would benefit from keeping Americans in the dark regarding climate change? For starters, the fossil fuel industry would benefit. And MAGA Republicans are intimately tied to the fossil fuel industry.
As of September 2024, Republicans have received $32.4 million in election funds from the fossil fuel industry, eight times as much funding as Democrats (https://www.statista.com/statistics/788056/us-oil-and-gas-lobbying-spend-by-party/)
Project 2025 also proposes slashing the FEMA budget, the federal agency that is now providing the robust emergency response following Helene.
As Americans, we share a long and proud history of solving tough problems. We can create a brighter future for our children by supporting lawmakers who are committed to tackling tough issues.
Let’s come together and vote for Harris/Walz, Sherrod Brown, and other Democrats in November.
Judith Crouse
Gambier, Ohio