In the past decade the polarization of American politics has seemingly grown stronger and more apparent than any other era of our history. One of the products of the issue is the division between climate change policy, and how many resources we should allocate towards reversing the effects of global warming. Republicans tend to consider climate change less of a threat and not an immediate priority, while democrats typically view climate change as more of a threat and an immediate priority. This is just a general stereotype of the two sides, both parties have voters that flip on this issue, but for the most part they stick to these stereotypes.
For most of the 1900s, both parties agreed on the existence of climate change. As studies began popping up showing our impact on the environment, the parties pushed an agenda of reversing our impacts and preserving our planet. However, in the age of new media this bipartisanship on the issue has become partisan. Climate skeptics have always existed, but never had a platform to express their concerns. News outlets, but especially social media offered an opportunity for skeptics to push their arguments on the center stage. Since this development, the parties tend to differ on the issue.
Click Here to View the Timeline of Climate Politicization in America
Amongst democrats, center-leaning liberals tend to view climate change as a threat but not the top priority, however farther left individuals such as AOC place climate change as a top priority evident by the Green New Deal she worked to create. Amongst Republicans, center-leaning conservatives push an agenda of climate belief but are hesitant to pour resources into reversing the issue. Father right individuals range from complete denial of the issue, to conspiracy theories about its existence.
Politicians are reflections of the constituents that elect them, and the issue in the general public is often just as politicized. Below, you can view arguments made by both sides.
https://www.conserve-energy-future.com/is-global-warming-real.php
Every election cycle, climate change is brought into the spotlight one way or another. Today, November 8th, the midterms are being held in the United States. Climate change is a significant factor in voter’s decisions, and could determine many races across the country. As I’ve personally watched debates over the last few years, the usual issues are brought up; Economy, abortion, gun rights, however I’ve noticed more and more time is dedicated towards discussions revolving around global warming. Whether you believe or refute climate change, it’s apparent the issue is becoming more prevalent in politics. This means that polarization will continue to grow, but that doesn’t mean we have to hate each other more each election cycle. The only way to achieve real progress is to talk to each other and discuss our questions and concerns. I’m tired of seeing debates be dominated by shouting and insults. This upcoming Thanksgiving, if climate change is brought to the table along with turkey and bread rolls, try to respect the other side’s opinions. If you believe in climate change, and Uncle Joe is arguing that it’s fake, listen to his views and calmly try to present facts and statistics that support your perspective. If you’re against climate change and Aunt Linda is support climate change, try to see her perspective and look into the science behind the issue rather than immediately writing her concerns off. The only way to fix this climate issue, is to work together and find a middle ground when discussing the issue, both amongst the general public and politicians.
1st. Intro into polaization