GAIN Calls on 2020 Candidates to Support Pragmatic Energy Solutions

In advance of CNN’s “climate crisis” townhall this evening, several of the Democratic 2020 contenders have released significant proposals to address climate change through spending trillions of tax dollars and overhauling the American energy economy. Staunch opposition to domestic energy production and barring the development of energy infrastructure have been key components of these plans. Ten of the 2020 Democratic presidential candidates have signed the “NoKXL Pledge” and have promised to immediately revoke permits for Keystone XL and the Dakota Access Pipeline – which has been safely operating for more than two years – issued under the Trump Administration.

Below is a statement that can be attributed to me, Craig Stevens, spokesman for the GAIN Coalition:

“It is troubling that a number of the 2020 Democratic presidential candidates have released proposals to restructure the American energy economy without recognizing the critical role of fossil fuels. While renewables are spotlighted in many of these plans, wind and solar currently only support about 8% of our nation’s electricity needs. Fossil fuels like natural gas and petroleum, on the other hand, serve as the mainstays for our nation’s electricity power generation and transportation sector. 

Additionally, the development and refining of these resources, as well as the construction and operation of needed infrastructure, is a powerful engine for job creation and economic growth.  

While we must continue to develop sustainable energy solutions, a diverse energy portfolio that employs an all-of-the-above approach – from hydro and wind to gas and nuclear – is key to ensuring our nation’s energy security and providing affordable, reliable energy for American consumers. Rather than political grandstanding and revoking permits for much-needed safe, operational energy infrastructure, the GAIN Coalition encourages the presidential candidates to focus on what is in the best interest of American consumers by supporting pragmatic energy and environmental solutions with tangible goals and realistic timelines and price tags.”