Our Election series: What They Say And What We Think

In November 2024, America will elect their next president. Climate control and the politics surrounding it will play a notable role in the election. Milligan students contrast their perspectives on climate politics with the candidates’ campaigns.

Former President Donald Trump intends to make the U.S. the world’s top oil and natural gas producer, which he hopes to make happen by lifting energy production restrictions and ending the Socialist Green New Deal. Other than that, the Trump-/Vance ballot does not have a climate-specific election campaign.

Vice President Kamala Harris plans to unite Americans by tackling the climate crisis, advancing environmental justice, protecting public land; and securing clean air and water. While in office under President Biden, Harris passed the Inflation Reduction Act, which is the largest climate action investment in U.S. history.

“That’s all I have really seen about climate change: people protesting,” said sophomore Madison Akbari.

“Since I have always lived by the beach, I think that marine life is important to me, and climate change causes the coral reefs to break down and fish to die,” said freshman Jeylise Padilla. 

“I think that climate change and the way our country handles and covers it is important,” said senior and swim team member Liz Mahan. “I have noticed, especially with the weather that just hit here, that it is not something that is really stressed. We are just not educated on it.” 

Interview with Jeylise Padilla

More opinions, including what Milligan professors think about climate change and other relevant election topics, will be discussed at the Deeper Connections Election Edition panel event.


written and recorded by Emily Haas


Got News? Message us any of your campus news here or on our Instagram!

Related Stories

President Elect Trump’s Tariffs Goal: Good Policy, or Problematic?

Immigration

Economics

The Volunteer State Rallies in Response to Hurricane Helene and its effects on East Tennessee

AI: A Tool For Innovation or Threat To Critical Thinking?

Big Screen Spectacular: Top 5 Movies Dominating the Box Office