While the ecoright is busy activating forces, a set of jesters are trying to stymie climate leadership efforts.
In California, GOP Assemblyman Chad Mayes, who provided critical support in leading six other Republicans to support a recently passed climate change bill, is at risk of losing his leadership position over his actions. While he survived an initial caucus vote, the Assembly will vote again next week on his fate.
We hope cooler heads prevail and he retains his post.
Mayes insists that by coming to the table on major legislation, he was able to negotiate key concessions in the cap and trade bill in question. “By bringing a market-driven approach to curbing greenhouse gases, this plan will reduce regulation, lower costs, cut taxes, protect jobs and provide a model for other states,” Mayes wrote in a column published in the Sacramento Bee.
The Republican Party in California is currently divided between those lawmakers who support business as usual and thoselike Mayeswho seek a fresh approach that reflects the state’s interest over the national party’s talking points. As Mayes’ spokesman Matt Mahon characterized the situation: “What we’re seeing right now is a clash between the old side of the party that’s having a difficult time with change, and a progressive wing of the party that’s willing to move with the times and trying to reflect the interests of California.” A similar call was made last week by San Diego Mayor Kevin Faulconer (a frequent subject of ClimateEye for his climate efforts in the sixth largest U.S. city) to reframe party priorities to reflect California’s needs. In response to Faulconer, Mayes tweeted:
The data is undeniable and the cause is righteous. Our choice is either to move forward boldly or languish in fear. https://t.co/nv8Pk0kEyz
Asm. Chad Mayes (@ChadMayesCA) August 16, 2017
We couldn’t have said it better.