For Immediate Release

Feb 26th, 2020

Press Contact: Thanu Yakupitiyage, [email protected] 

(Charleston, S.C.) Despite taking place in a coastal state that regularly experiences flooding and most recently experience the impacts of Hurricane Dorian, the South Carolina Democratic Presidential Debate saw not a single question on climate change. For over two hours, the candidates squabbled with each other and moderator questions focused on issues not remotely related to one of the most major crises the next President will have to confront. Congresswoman Ocasio-Cortez said online that the lack of climate questions was “horrifying.”

The following is a statement from 350 Action’s North America Director Tamara Toles O’Laughlin: 

“We are beyond disappointed by the regular inconsistency and negligence of both the mainstream media and the candidates who refuse to confront the severity of the climate crisis. To fight for airtime for one of the major issues facing communities in 2020 adds insult to the injuries caused by climate change. Instead we watched billionaires and fossil fuel supporters debate their personal merits. Despite minimal coverage, climate issues have played a key role in turning the tides of the 2020 Presidential election. Climate impacts and environmental justice have regularly polled as top issues for voters — candidates may choose to ignore climate now, but activists will make sure they feel the heat at the polls.” 

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