PORTLAND PRESS HERALD • December 21, 2021
Back in September, we identified the Biden administration’s economic policy bill, Build Back Better, as “Congress’ last, best chance to make meaningful climate action.” On Sunday, that hope crumbled when Sen. Joe Manchin, D-W.Va., announced he was a “no” vote on the package, which would have included $550 billion to speed the transition from fossil fuels to a carbon-free economy by mid-century. If the Biden plan is really dead, we should demand that Republicans work with their colleagues and offer their ideas about how to eliminate carbon emissions in time to make a difference. Congress may have given up its best chance, but the world doesn’t have time for anyone to give up hope.