The Daily Item
October 23, 2024
The unprecedented devastation and loss of life in Asheville, N.C., caused by massive flooding from Hurricane Helene, should be a wake-up call to all of us.
Many in the Northeast believe climate change is a problem for the South and West, where there have been dozens of massively destructive hurricanes, violent tornadoes, and fires. You can watch them any night of the week on TV news.
In central Pennsylvania, severe rain in the tributaries of the Susquehanna River can be disastrous for those in its reach. As climate change worsens, we’ll face more frequent and much more destructive floods that could devastate our communities and economy.
The Biden-Harris administration has worked to tackle climate change, creating tax incentives for electric vehicles, investing in charging stations, supporting a transition to a clean energy grid, creating new jobs, and leading global efforts to curb carbon emissions.
Donald Trump has repeatedly downplayed climate change despite overwhelming scientific evidence. During his first term, he rolled back more than 100 environmental protections. Now, he would reverse many Biden-Harris initiatives to fight climate change. Shockingly, he even pressed oil industry executives to contribute $1 billion to his campaign in exchange for his pledge to further weaken climate policies. “Drill, baby, drill” and the burning of fossil fuels stoke the atmospheric conditions that promote more climate events.
Most people know we must find many alternatives to our dependence on oil and gas much sooner than later.
The choices we make now, including those at the ballot box, will determine whether we can slow climate change and mitigate future disasters like the flooding in Asheville. Even here in Pennsylvania, we can’t afford to ignore the risks.
Jami Murdoch
West Milton
Asheville NC devastated by Helene as state faces “unprecedented tragedy” – CBS News
Harris vs. Trump on climate change: Where they stand on the issue – Washington Post
What’s at stake for the climate if Trump wins? ‘A catastrophic outcome’ | CNN
Five Major Climate Policies Trump Would Probably Reverse if Elected – The New York Times
Trump Administration Rolled Back More Than 100 Environmental Rules – The New York Times
Five Major Climate Policies Trump Would Probably Reverse if Elected – The New York Times
Trump seeks $1 billion from oil CEOs, vows to limit EVs – The Washington Post