Washington, DC — Today, author Bill McKibben, 350 Action, a national organization working to change the politics of climate change, and 350 Mass Action, endorsed Democratic candidate Bob Massie for Massachusetts Governor. He outlined his plans to address the climate crisis in 350 Action’s questionnaire here.
“For decades, Bob Massie has been one the Commonwealth’s foremost climate leaders,” 350 Mass Action Executive Director Craig Altemose said. “After a democratic vote of our membership that Bob won with over 90% of the vote, 350 Mass Action could not be prouder to be making Bob Massie our first statewide endorsement in our organization’s history.”
“Literally no candidate for any office in America has done more than Bob Massie to take on the climate crisis,” 350.org co-founder Bill McKibben said. “His principled and courageous early stand for climate justice — and his deep understanding of the energy issue and how it can contribute mightily to the Bay State’s prosperity — mean he’s precisely the sort of leader this moment requires. And his intelligence, his deep ethical code, his remarkably personal story, and his sheer joy in public service are a reminder that America can still produce leaders who inspire.”
“Bob Massie has been a stalwart advocate for climate action for decades,” 350 Action Executive Director May Boeve said. “He understands the nuts and bolts of transitioning Massachusetts to a 100% renewable energy economy in a way that centers justice and communities. Massie is exactly the kind of candidate who can help move us toward the fossil free world we need.”
In his questionnaire, Massie took a strong stance on new fossil fuel projects in Massachusetts, saying, “I will take every possible step to block all investments in new fossil fuel infrastructure of any kind.” Massie also supports a ban on fracking in the state, divestment from fossil fuels by state and municipal pension funds, and an end to offshore drilling. “I am running for governor in part to fight the climate crisis and the massive injustice it has created,” Massie said, and added that he’s been a proponent of a just transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy since the 1980s.
On the transition to 100% renewable energy, Massie recognizes the challenges and opportunities of this critical goal. He said, “Too often we have seen technology changes bring benefits to those who are already well-off, while leaving others behind. Though change is rarely even, smooth or simple, a new approach to energy would go a long way toward achieving greater economic justice.” This shift could create tens of thousands of new jobs, Massie notes, and create cleaner, cheaper energy that supports businesses and families. He emphasized that, as governor, he would work to ensure “the transition meets its objectives while assisting communities across the state – especially low-income communities and communities of color.”
350 Action is empowering voters across the country to make a direct impact in the most important climate races in the nation. This year, 350 Action has also endorsed U.S. congressional candidates Deb Haaland (NM-1), Greg Edwards (PA-7), and Kaniela Ing (HI-1), and gubernatorial candidates Ben Jealous (D-MD), Cathy Glasson (D-IA) and Andrew Gillum (D-FL).
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350 Action is empowering voters across the country to make a direct impact in the most important climate races in the nation. From local elections that can determine the fate of proposed fossil fuel projects, to House races which could help wrestle control of Congress back from climate deniers and oil industry puppets, 350 Action is lifting up climate progressive candidates. Find out more about our work at www.350action.org. 350 Mass Action works to challenge dirty energy interests in Massachusetts and the role of dirty energy money in Massachusetts politics. This is their first statewide endorsement.