In her speech at the Democratic National Convention, Vice President Kamala Harris emphasized that 'fundamental freedoms,' including clean air and water, are at stake in the upcoming election. This rhetoric may resonate widely, bridging political divides about climate change and appealing to Americans' patriotism. Notably, a study from New York University supports this approach, indicating that framing climate action as vital to preserving the American way of life can increase bipartisan support.
Katherine Mason, a coauthor of the study, stated that 'It's encouraging to see politicians adopting this type of language.' She noted that using patriotic rhetoric regarding climate action can 'bridge political divides about climate change,' suggesting a potential shift in public sentiment as more voters align with environmental initiatives when framed as crucial for America's future.
The Biden administration has framed climate policies around the concept of American manufacturing, promoting electric vehicles and domestic chargers to make the 'great American road trip' environmentally friendly. Harris highlighted this approach in debates, focusing on 'American-made' initiatives and reducing dependence on foreign oil, reinforcing the notion that climate action is intrinsically tied to American values.
A poll from CBS News reveals that a significant 70% of Americans, including most younger Republicans, support government action on climate change. This data underscores the effectiveness of tapping into Americans' patriotism and sense of responsibility towards the environment, providing a compelling argument for why climate action should transcend political ideologies.
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