Staff Reports
In the run-up to the November election, Americans are faced with a big decision between two very different paths for the future of our country.
On one side, there is Donald Trump, who during his time as President made significant strides in protecting the environment while also growing the economy. On the other side, there is Kamala Harris, whose ideas align more closely with the policies of the current Biden administration, which have been criticized for both weakening the economy and environmental progress.
#JosephFordCotto Trump's Environmental Triumph: How His Policies Delivered Clean Air, Water, and Economic Growth https://t.co/6UkOO5rZP1
— American Thinker (@AmericanThinker) August 20, 2024
Trump’s presidency was marked by concrete achievements in environmental protection. Some folks say he didn’t care about the environment, but the truth is his policies were all about smart stewardship. Trump’s administration oversaw some of the most substantial environmental improvements in recent memory, all while keeping the economy strong.
One of Trump’s major accomplishments was his focus on improving water quality. His administration invested over $38 billion in clean water infrastructure, tackling issues like lead and copper contamination. This investment wasn’t just about money—it was a strategic move to protect communities and ensure everyone has access to safe drinking water.
This initiative not only improved public health but also had economic benefits by reducing healthcare costs related to waterborne diseases and lead exposure.
Trump also took steps to get rid of lead-based paint hazards that put children’s health at risk. By implementing new rules, Trump made sure our youngest citizens had a safer environment to grow up in. This focus on health led to a more efficient workforce and lower long-term medical costs, showing how environmental policies can help the economy.
In 2019, the U.S. under Trump saw the biggest drop in carbon emissions worldwide. This is remarkable considering Trump pulled out of the Paris Climate Accord, a move that sparked criticism. However, by cutting regulations and promoting energy independence, Trump’s policies led to a significant decrease in carbon emissions. This demonstrates that we can make environmental progress without hurting the economy.
During Trump’s leadership, air quality in the U.S. significantly improved, with a 7 percent reduction in major pollutant emissions between 2017 and 2019. This progress was made while keeping the economy robust, proving that we can protect the environment and grow financially at the same time.
The U.S. also led the world in reducing greenhouse gas emissions under Trump. From 2005 to 2018, our country cut energy-related CO2 emissions by 12 percent, while other nations saw a 24 percent increase. This showcases Trump’s dedication to both protecting the environment and advancing the economy.
Under Trump, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) became more effective, cleaning up more major pollution sites in 2019 than in almost 20 years. This proactive cleanup not only made local environments better but also boosted communities by creating jobs and investments in Opportunity Zones.
Trump’s administration put a stop to offshore drilling in certain coastal areas, safeguarding marine ecosystems and local economies that rely on fishing and tourism. This decision showed a balanced approach to protecting the environment while considering economic impacts.
Furthermore, Trump restored public access to federal lands at Bears Ears and Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monuments, preserving natural beauty and supporting local economies through tourism and recreation.
Lastly, Trump’s administration excelled in recovering endangered species, proving its dedication to biodiversity and ecological balance. This conservation effort had broad economic benefits, from promoting eco-tourism to safeguarding ecosystems important for agriculture and industry.
In contrast, the current Biden administration has faced criticism for its environmental and economic policies. Despite big plans, the results have been lacking. Biden’s actions have led to higher energy costs and strained the domestic energy sector due to restrictions on oil and gas production. These restrictions have resulted in increased energy prices, impacting both businesses and consumers and burdening the working class and small businesses.
Biden’s environmental regulations have been faulted for being excessive and impractical, sometimes obstructing innovation and economic growth while not always achieving the desired environmental effects.
Kamala Harris, as the Democratic nominee, is likely to continue these policies. Her alignment with the current administration’s strategies could mean more economic challenges and environmental missteps. This path risks worsening the economic hardships affecting American families and businesses.
Heading into the 2024 election, the choice between Trump and Harris is clear. Trump’s record shows his unique ability to balance economic growth with environmental protection. His achievements in reducing emissions, enhancing air and water quality, and preserving natural resources were made alongside building a strong and resilient economy.
Trump’s approach wasn’t about picking between economic growth and environmental protection but about integrating both. His policies prove that we can protect the environment while also supporting business and job creation, demonstrating that a healthy environment and a vibrant economy go hand in hand.
On the other hand, Harris’s association with the current administration’s policies spells a continuation of economic challenges and environmental missteps. Maintaining the status quo under her leadership could lead to increased costs and environmental policies that prioritize regulation over practical solutions.
Voters should look beyond mere environmental promises and consider the real-world results of each candidate’s policies. Trump’s track record makes a compelling case for why his approach to environmental and economic policy works. His achievements show that we can protect the environment while fostering economic success—an important vision as America looks to rebuild and prosper in the future.
