As climate disasters intensify, the political debate over climate change becomes even more pronounced. The recent devastation caused by Hurricane Helene has reignited discussions about climate action, with scientists and politicians linking the storm’s rapid intensification to rising ocean temperatures—undoubtedly fueled by climate change.
Despite these alarming events, 123 members of the 118th Congress still deny the scientific consensus on human-caused climate change. These representatives wield significant influence over public perception and policy, further delaying the implementation of critical climate action.
As of October 1, 2024, Hurricane Helene has caused widespread damage across several states, prompting political leaders to address the urgency of climate change.
President Joe Biden highlighted the link between Helene’s intensification and unusually warm ocean temperatures, emphasizing the need for immediate climate action. “The rapid strengthening of storms like Helene is a clear consequence of warmer oceans, and we must take action now to prevent further damage,” Biden stated while offering federal assistance to the hardest-hit areas.
Georgia Governor Brian Kemp echoed this sentiment, describing the severe damage in southern Georgia, particularly from fallen trees and downed power lines. Kemp stressed the importance of preparedness and resilience in the face of increasingly powerful storms: “The devastation caused by Hurricane Helene is a stark reminder of the increasing frequency and intensity of these storms. We must continue to invest in resilient infrastructure and support our communities in adapting to these changes”.
Environmental Scientist Peter Kalmus criticized the media for downplaying the role of climate change in intensifying hurricanes like Helene. “The size and strength of these storms are changing because of human activity, specifically the burning of fossil fuels that warm the planet,” Kalmus argued. He emphasized the importance of addressing the root causes of climate change rather than simply responding to its impacts.
Former President Donald Trump has sparked significant controversy with his recent remarks on climate change in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. While the storm caused widespread destruction and loss of life across the southeastern United States, Trump doubled down on his stance that climate change is a "scam."
During a rally in Erie, Pennsylvania, he dismissed concerns about climate change, questioning why environmental issues are no longer a major talking point and stating that “people aren’t buying it anymore.”
Trump's comments have drawn criticism, especially given the well-established link between warming ocean temperatures and the increasing intensity of hurricanes like Helene. Despite this, Trump continues to deny the science behind climate change, even as federal agencies, including FEMA, acknowledge the role that climate change plays in intensifying extreme weather events.
In Georgia, one of the hardest-hit states, Trump visited Valdosta to assess the damage. His previous statement at a rally, telling victims of the hurricane that they would "be okay," also drew backlash for being perceived as insensitive, particularly as the death toll from Helene rose, and many people were left without necessities.
Trump’s position on climate change remains consistent with his past views, as he continues to label climate-related concerns as exaggerated or false.
His stance contrasts sharply with those of scientists and political figures, including President Biden. He links Hurricane Helene’s rapid intensification to human-caused climate change and emphasizes the need for immediate action to address the climate crisis.
Despite the growing recognition of the link between climate change and the severity of hurricanes, 23% of Congress members remain climate deniers. These 123 representatives and senators have collectively received over $52 million in campaign contributions from the fossil fuel industry, demonstrating a clear financial interest in obstructing climate action.
Notably, prominent climate denier Rep. Steve Scalise (R-LA) has dismissed climate science, stating that “Mother Nature” is responsible for extreme weather rather than human-caused global warming.
This resistance to climate science is not limited to rhetoric. Over 30 attempts have been made to repeal the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), the largest climate investment in U.S. history. The IRA incentivizes clean energy, reduces pollution, and creates well-paying jobs. Every Republican member of Congress voted against the IRA, further demonstrating the influence of climate denial and fossil fuel contributions in obstructing meaningful climate action.
The fossil fuel industry has long been a key player in blocking federal climate policy, spending millions on lobbying efforts to maintain its influence. In 2022, the industry earned $400 billion in profits, with the top five oil companies—BP, Shell, Chevron, ExxonMobil, and TotalEnergies—funneling much of these earnings into stock buybacks and lobbying to prevent climate regulations.
The connection between fossil fuel contributions and climate denial in Congress is clear. Climate deniers often spread misinformation to undermine support for climate action, a tactic exemplified by claims that offshore wind projects are responsible for whale deaths. These falsehoods, promoted by fossil fuel-funded groups, aim to block the expansion of renewable energy.
While outright climate denial is decreasing, obstructionist tactics are evolving. Many politicians have shifted from denying climate science to employing strategies such as redirecting responsibility or spreading misinformation.
For example, some argue that the U.S. should not act on climate change until other major polluters, such as China and India, take similar steps. This rhetoric deflects attention from the urgent need for U.S. climate action while delaying progress.
As natural disasters like Hurricane Helene become more frequent and severe, the persistence of climate denial in Congress is increasingly out of step with both scientific consensus and public demand for action. The fossil fuel industry’s financial grip on politics continues to obstruct meaningful policy changes, endangering communities and exacerbating the climate crisis.
With 123 members of Congress still denying the reality of climate change, political and corporate accountability is essential to addressing the root causes of the crisis. Climate action cannot afford to be delayed any longer.
For detailed information on the 123 members of Congress, visit The Center for American Progress.
