Vice President Kamala Harris stirs controversy by appointing a climate activist with ties to a group advocating for gas stove bans as her campaign’s climate engagement director.
At a Glance
- Kamala Harris hires Camila Thorndike, formerly of Rewiring America, as climate engagement director
- Thorndike’s appointment raises concerns about potential anti-fossil fuel policies
- Rewiring America is linked to efforts promoting home electrification and gas stove bans
- Critics argue the move signals hostility towards American energy independence
- Harris’s campaign faces scrutiny from pro-fossil fuel groups and Republicans
Harris’s Controversial Climate Appointment
Vice President Kamala Harris has ignited a firestorm of debate by appointing Camila Thorndike as her “climate engagement director” for the 2024 presidential campaign. Thorndike, a veteran of the far-left climate movement, previously worked at Rewiring America, a nonprofit advocating for the electrification of the U.S. economy. This appointment has raised eyebrows and drawn criticism from conservative groups and energy stakeholders.
Thorndike’s background in climate activism, including her work with Bernie Sanders and the Sunrise Movement, suggests a potential alignment with anti-fossil fuel activists. Her appointment has led to speculation about Harris’s stance on energy policies, particularly concerning the controversial push to ban gas stoves.
Kamala Harris's new "climate engagement director" was a top official at the group that pushed to ban gas stoves. story from @ThomasCatenacci https://t.co/kp8IN6OYqM
— Chuck Ross (@ChuckRossDC) September 6, 2024
Rewiring America and the Gas Stove Debate
Rewiring America, Thorndike’s former employer, has been at the center of efforts to promote home electrification and reduce fossil fuel use. The group has been particularly vocal in the push to ban gas stoves, citing health concerns. This initiative has faced strong opposition from Republican attorneys general and energy advocacy groups, who view it as government overreach into consumer choice.
The Department of Energy (DOE) has introduced a gas stove efficiency rule, requiring modest improvements by 2028. However, restrictions on gas stoves remain unpopular among many Americans, with critics arguing that such measures infringe on personal freedom and could potentially increase energy costs.
Criticism and Implications
Harris’s decision to hire Thorndike has drawn sharp criticism from various quarters. Jason Isaac from the American Energy Institute argues that this move demonstrates hostility towards American energy independence. O.H. Skinner from the Alliance for Consumers claims that the left is targeting consumer choices through regulations.
Daniel Turner of Power the Future criticized Harris for hiring what he termed “climate radicals,” suggesting her actions align with the Biden administration’s climate agenda. These critiques highlight the growing divide between those advocating for aggressive climate action and those concerned about its economic impacts.
The Path Forward
As the 2024 presidential campaign heats up, Harris’s climate policies are likely to face increased scrutiny. While her campaign promises not to ban fracking and aims to reduce energy costs and invest in clean energy, the appointment of Thorndike signals a potentially more aggressive stance on climate issues.
The controversy surrounding Thorndike’s appointment underscores the complex balance between addressing climate concerns and maintaining energy independence. As the debate continues, it remains to be seen how Harris will navigate these competing interests and what impact this will have on her campaign and potential future policies.
Sources:
Kamala Harris Hires Top Official From Climate Group Behind Gas Stove Crackdown
Harris campaign poaches aide from climate group tied to anti-gas stoves push
