Benji Backer’s Call to Action: Why Young Conservatives Care About Climate

In this episode, we delve into an op-ed by Benji Backer, a unique voice in the climate change discourse as the founder and executive chairman of the American Conservation Coalition. His piece, titled "I'm a Young Conservative, and I Want My Party to Lead the Fight Against Climate Change," Offers a fresh perspective on conservatives' historical and current roles in environmental protection. Join us as we read and dissect this compelling op-ed. "Young people and the future of our country care about this issue, and it is motivating people to vote against the Republican Party. If you want to be a growing and continuing force in getting your political agenda through, you need to have some kind of climate policy." Our producer sent us an op-ed published in the New York Times by Benji Backer of the American Conservation Coalition. As fans of their work, we discuss Backer's piece, "I'm a Young Conservative, and I Want My Party to Lead the Fight Against Climate Change." This episode features an in-depth reading and analysis of the op-ed, highlighting the Republican Party's past environmental achievements and the need for renewed conservative engagement in climate issues. Katie reads the op-ed in segments, allowing for a thorough discussion with Zach on each point. We address the shift from historical Republican environmentalism to current disengagement, and the impact of this change on recent elections. The conversation covers the Inflation Reduction Act, the elitist tone in some liberal climate solutions, and the necessity for inclusive, conservative-led climate action. "The fact of the matter is, we cannot address climate change or solve any other environmental issue without the buy-in and leadership of conservative America. And there are clear opportunities for climate action that conservatives can champion without sacrificing core values." Hannah joins the conversation to share her perspective as a conservative environmentalist. We explore the importance of bridging the political divide on climate issues and the need for conservatives to step up with pragmatic solutions. The episode concludes with a call for redefining environmentalism to include the many conservatives who care about the environment but don't fit the stereotypical image of an environmentalist. Tune in to hear a lively discussion on how conservatives can and should lead in the fight against climate change, featuring insights from across the political spectrum. Key Points: - Historical role of Republicans in environmental protection - Current political climate and its impact on climate policy - Critique of the Inflation Reduction Act and its costs - Elitism in liberal climate solutions and the need for inclusive approaches - Importance of conservative voices in the climate movement - Redefining environmentalism to be more inclusive Listen now to gain a deeper understanding of the conservative approach to climate action and the urgent need for bipartisan solutions. Subscribe and leave a review on Apple Podcasts to support our show!   Contact Us  email: info @ greenteapartyradio.com website: https://www.greenteapartyradio.com/ Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/GreenTeaPartyRadio/