The 7 Biggest Obstacles to US Energy Reform

Photo via Foreign Policy

4. Big Trouble from Big China

Perhaps the most common criticism of progressive clean energy policy and cap and trade plans of any kind in the US is that they don't confront the emissions of big, developing economies like China and India--we'll lose jobs, manufacturing, and trade to China, who will continue to blaze ahead with its economic momentum, emissions be damned, the argument goes. Obama would need to convince China to make motions towards curbing its own emissions to continue trade with the US--no easy feat considering how financially dependent the US currently is on loans from China. But critics will continue to push the issue, and it will continue to gain traction.

Photo via Gender Race Power

5. More Care for Health Care

Many in Congress view the passage of health care reform as more of priority than cap and trade and energy reform, and more feasible. Even Democratic representatives have threatened to hold the bill up in their committees until health care reform is passed. To all those politicians who view the climate and energy bill as a lost cause, dangerous to the economy, or just ill-timed (and many view it as all three), passing health care reform seems like a more pressing matter.

6. Rust Belt and Ag-Friendly Democrats

Democrats from rust belt states and rural, agriculture-dependent areas are opposing the climate bill, saying they're afraid it would impose too many financial burdens on their constituents in tough economic times. One ag-friendly Rep. has claimed he can quickly rally 40 votes in the House to oppose the measure unless it's overhauled.

Image via Arizona Republican Party

7. The Grand Ol' Party

As of now, the Republicans are nearly united in their disapproval of any and all of Obama's energy policies. Cap and trade especially--just read their talking points to get a sense of the party's line on the issue. One Republican voted for the climate bill in committee, three voted for Obama's stimulus bill, and none voted for his budget. None are predicted to vote for the climate and energy bill.

More on US Energy Reform
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Without Carbon Pricing Any Green Energy Plan Is Fundamentally Incomplete

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