Senator Schatz on How Democrats Should Talk About Climate Change

In a recent Climate Forward live event, Senator Brian Schatz, a Democrat from Hawaii, emphasized the need for his party to revamp its approach to discussing climate change. According to Schatz, the current narrative surrounding climate issues is no longer effective, and Democrats must adapt their messaging to resonate with a broader audience.Schatz stressed that the conversation around climate change has evolved significantly over the years. He argued that while the science is clear, the way Democrats discuss climate issues often falls flat with many Americans. The senator believes that his party needs to move beyond simply highlighting the dire consequences of climate change and instead focus on the tangible solutions and benefits that addressing the issue can bring.By shifting the focus towards solutions and opportunities, Schatz hopes that Democrats can build a more inclusive and persuasive case for climate action. This approach would involve emphasizing the economic benefits of transitioning to clean energy, such as job creation and infrastructure investments, as well as highlighting the positive impacts on public health and national security.Moreover, Schatz acknowledged that the conversation around climate change is often polarized, with some Americans feeling skeptical or disengaged. He suggested that Democrats should strive to engage these audiences in a more empathetic and constructive way, rather than simply lecturing or scolding them. By doing so, Schatz believes that his party can build a broader coalition of support for climate action and create a more sustainable future for the country.Overall, Schatz's comments at the Climate Forward live event underscore the need for Democrats to rethink their approach to climate change and find new ways to communicate the urgency and importance of this issue to the American people. By emphasizing solutions, opportunities, and inclusivity, Schatz hopes that his party can build a more effective and persuasive case for climate action.