Tag: climate leadership

  • National Environmental Organizations Endorse Julie Gonzales for U.S. Senator for Colorado

    National Environmental Organizations Endorse Julie Gonzales for U.S. Senator for Colorado

    For Immediate Release, June 8, 2026

    Contacts: Alli Henderson, Center for Biological Diversity Action Fund, (970) 309-2008, allihenderson@centeractionfund.org
    Rebecca Stoner, Oil Change Action, (917) 561 2607, rebecca.stoner@oilchangeaction.org

    DENVER, Colo.— The Center for Biological Diversity Action Fund and Oil Change Action today announced their endorsement of Julie Gonzales for U.S Senator for Colorado.

    As a state senator since 2018, Gonzales has championed pro-people and pro-environment policies. She is facing Sen. John Hickenlooper in the June primary.

    “Julie Gonzales will work every day in the U.S. Senate to protect what Coloradans cherish: clean air, flowing rivers and our beloved public lands,” said Alli Henderson, Colorado political director at the Center for Biological Diversity Action Fund. “In contrast, Sen. Hickenlooper has been far too cozy his entire career with the frackers and polluters that have poisoned the Front Range’s air quality. The choice is clear and it’s time for a change.”

    Gonzales is an outspoken supporter of a clean energy transition and takes stands to defy the decades of inaction on the climate crisis. Representing a community with some of the highest pollution in the country, she has supported legislation to reduce exposure to harmful toxins and hold Big Oil accountable. As the current chair of the Judiciary Committee in the Colorado Senate, Gonzales is committed to the oversight and accountability that’s critical for defending democracy and the environment.

    “Coloradans deserve a senator who puts what’s best for working families over corporate profits, and that is Julie Gonzales. Oil Change Action is excited to endorse her for U.S. Senate. For too long, incumbent Sen. Hickenlooper has prioritized his oil and gas donors over Coloradans’ health and safety, their right to drink clean water and breathe clean air, and our climate,” said Allie Rosenbluth, U.S. campaign manager at Oil Change Action. “Julie Gonzales’ experience as state senator and her commitment to her community and the environment make her the ideal candidate for U.S. Senate.”

    The Center Action Fund is a national nonprofit organization that advocates for legislation and legislators that will advance a progressive environmental agenda. The Center Action Fund is the 501(c)(4) affiliate of the Center for Biological Diversity, but these organizations’ names are not interchangeable. This news release is from the Center Action Fund, not the Center for Biological Diversity.

    Oil Change Action, a 501(c)(4) non-profit organization, is dedicated to supporting real climate leadership, exposing the true costs of fossil fuels, and building a just, equitable, and renewable energy future in the United States.

  • Oil Change Action and Friends of the Earth Action Endorse Janeese Lewis George for Mayor of Washington, D.C.

    Oil Change Action and Friends of the Earth Action Endorse Janeese Lewis George for Mayor of Washington, D.C.

    Contact:
    Rebecca Stoner, Oil Change Action, rebecca.stoner@oilchange.org, 917-561-2607 
    Lindsay Tice, Friends of the Earth Action, ltice@foe.org, 202-783-7400, ext. 8403

    Today, Oil Change Action and Friends of the Earth Action announced their endorsement of Janeese Lewis George for Mayor of Washington, D.C.

    As a member of the D.C. Council, Lewis George has proven to be a champion for climate justice, environmental accountability, and affordable clean energy. She has consistently advanced policies that put working people ahead of fossil fuel industry profits and corporate polluters.

    Earlier this year, Lewis George introduced the District’s “Make Polluters Pay” legislation, which would study the financial costs climate change is imposing on the city and lay the groundwork for requiring major fossil fuel corporations to compensate D.C. taxpayers for climate damages. At the bill’s introduction, George stated that “Climate change is not a distant threat for the District – it is already shaping our infrastructure, our public health, and our daily lives.”

    Lewis George has also backed efforts to green DC buildings, reduce lower-income residents’ utility bills, and limit rising energy costs for all DC residents. She supports adding bus and bike lanes, ending food deserts, and reducing citywide greenhouse gas emissions by following laws already on the books.

    As Washington, D.C. faces threats from Trump’s takeover, attacks on immigrant neighbors, and on home rule, Lewis George is a leading voice against federal overreach and authoritarianism. She has spoken out forcefully against ICE intimidation tactics and efforts by national Republicans to undermine the District’s autonomy and target vulnerable residents for political gain.

    Oil Change Action and Friends of the Earth Action believe this is exactly the kind of bold, values-driven progressive leadership D.C. needs: a leader willing to stand up to corporate polluters, defend democratic rights, and fight for communities.

    Allie Rosenbluth, Campaign Manager at Oil Change Action, said:

    “Janeese Lewis George understands that the climate crisis and the affordability crisis are deeply connected. While fossil fuel companies continue to rake in massive profits, D.C. residents are paying the price through rising utility bills and growing inequality. Janeese has been a leader in fighting to hold polluters accountable, expand access to affordable clean energy, and build a city that works for working people instead of corporate interests. A lifelong Washingtonian and Ward 4 councilmember, Lewis George has built her political career around the idea that government should work for ordinary people, not wealthy corporations and special interests. Oil Change Action is proud to endorse her campaign for Mayor of Washington, D.C.”

    Ariel Moger, Director of Public Affairs for Friends of the Earth Action, said: 

    “Friends of the Earth Action is thrilled to endorse Janeese Lewis George for Mayor of Washington, D.C. because she really gets it. Lewis George is running a people-focused campaign, grounded in community and working toward a future in which all D.C. residents can thrive. As mayor, Lewis George won’t just talk about environmental justice, she’ll demand it; fighting for climate action, access to healthy food, and safe transportation options. We urge voters to support Lewis George and the bold, fearless leadership she will bring to Washington, D.C.” 

    Oil Change Action, a 501(c)(4) non-profit organization, is dedicated to supporting real climate leadership, exposing the true costs of fossil fuels, and building a just, equitable, and renewable energy future in the United States.

    Friends of the Earth (Action), Inc. fights for transformational environmental policy and pushes political discourse to center justice and the environment. Friends of the Earth (Action), Inc. is the 501(c)(4) affiliate of Friends of the Earth U.S., but these organizations’ names are not interchangeable. This news release is from Friends of the Earth (Action), Inc., not Friends of the Earth.  

    Not authorized by any candidate or candidate’s committee.  

  • National Environmental Groups Endorse Saikat Chakrabarti for CA-11, Heidi Hall for CA-03

    National Environmental Groups Endorse Saikat Chakrabarti for CA-11, Heidi Hall for CA-03

    SAN FRANCISCO— National environmental groups Center for Biological Diversity Action Fund and Oil Change Action are endorsing Saikat Chakrabarti for California’s 11th Congressional District and Heidi Hall for California’s 3rd Congressional District ahead of the June 2 primary election.

    Saikat Chakrabarti, running to fill Nancy Pelosi’s open seat, is a bold thinker and environmental advocate who will lead San Francisco beyond the status quo. As an architect of the Green New Deal, he has advanced innovative and progressive solutions that place people above corporate interests.

    Heidi Hall, who is challenging Ami Bera, has a strong track record defending clean air, clean water, and public lands. She has both the experience and the courage necessary to protect the nation’s shared natural heritage while pushing for a just and sustainable clean energy future.

    Both candidates have signed the No Fossil Fuel Money Pledge.

    “Both Saikat Chakrabarti and Heidi Hall represent a bold, progressive future for California and the Democratic Party,” said Rachel Rilee, deputy political director at the Center for Biological Diversity Action Fund. “We are proud to support leaders who put people and our public lands ahead of polluters and profits. California has a long history of environmental leadership, and these candidates are exactly the kind of leaders we need to carry that legacy forward.”

    “Californians are on the frontlines of climate-fueled wildfires and droughts. They deserve representatives in Congress who will stand up to Big Oil and fight for their communities’ health, safety, and futures. We are proud to endorse Saikat Chakrabarti and Heidi Hall as champions for bold climate action and resilient communities,” said Allie Rosenbluth, U.S. campaign manager, Oil Change Action. “Saikat is determined to create green jobs and economic opportunity for San Franciscans while tackling the climate crisis with the full-scale mobilization it deserves. Heidi has spent decades protecting California’s water resources, fighting pollution, and making her community more resilient to wildfires — work she’ll be empowered to advance in Congress.”

    Not authorized by any candidate or candidate’s committee.

  • Oil Change U.S. Statement on Election Day

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

    November 5, 2024
    Contact: Rebecca Stoner, rebecca.stoner@priceofoil.org, +1 917 561 2607

    As the election comes to a close, Collin Rees, Campaign Manager at Oil Change U.S, released the following statement:

    “Our country is at a crossroads. One path leads to an opportunity for a livable planet and the other to accelerated climate chaos and a breakdown of our democracy. 

    “Another Trump term would spell disaster, especially for Black, Brown, and Indigenous communities, working-class people, and our climate. The climate crisis is here and already harming millions of Americans each year, as the devastation of Hurricanes Helene and Milton make clear. 

    “Trump has promised to sell out our future for campaign donations from Big Oil. He intends to torpedo the fragile progress made on the climate crisis so far by withdrawing from the Paris Agreement and shredding environmental safeguards. 

    “Kamala Harris’s election, on the other hand, would leave open the possibility of a more just and sustainable future. If she wins office, the broad coalition of people concerned about the climate crisis – from Gulf Coast fishermen to Los Angeles public school teachers to Gen Z and many more – will continue to pressure her to stand firm against the fossil fuel industry and prioritize clean air, clean water, and a liveable climate for all of us. 

    “Harris will have immediate opportunities to move the country towards a clean energy future, including shutting down the disastrous Dakota Access Pipeline and the proposed Gulf Link crude oil export terminal and making the Biden administration’s pause on new LNG exports permanent.

    “This election also represents a crucial moment for US foreign policy and our role on the global stage, as the ongoing genocide in Palestine continues to deny human rights and defy international law. This has been a defining issue for voters this election cycle and Harris has vowed to do everything she can to end the war in Gaza, but real action means supporting an immediate arms embargo and ceasefire.

    “Harris can become the climate president and global leader we desperately need by taking urgent, uncompromising action. She must end fossil fuel expansion, invest in clean energy, and safeguard Black, Brown, and Indigenous communities from the fossil fuel industry’s pollution and the worst impacts of the climate crisis.”

  • National Environmental Groups Endorse Susheela Jayapal for U.S. House, OR-03

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    Contact: 
    Allie Rosenbluth, allie@priceofoil.org
    Erika Seiber, eseiber@foe.org

    National Environmental Groups Endorse Susheela Jayapal for U.S. House, OR-03

    WASHINGTON — Today, environmental groups including Oil Change U.S., Center for Biological Diversity Action Fund, Climate Hawks Vote, Food & Water Action, Friends of the Earth Action, and Zero Hour announced their endorsement of Susheela Jayapal for Oregon’s third Congressional district.

    Allie Rosenbluth, Political Director at Oil Change U.S., said: 
    “Under Susheela Jayapal’s leadership, Multnomah County took momentous actions to protect communities from the harms of fossil fuels while also investing in climate resilience and adaptation. Her proven record shows her dedication to environmental justice making her the ideal candidate to represent Oregon’s third district in Congress.” 

    Brett Hartl, Chief Political Strategist at Center for Biological Diversity Action, said: 
    “Susheela Jayapal works tirelessly for her community by taking on big polluters and standing up for our democracy. She isn’t afraid to fight for what’s right, and that’s exactly the kind of progressive champion we need in Congress. We’re very excited to endorse Susheela and can’t wait to work with her in Congress.”

    RL Miller, Political Director at Climate Hawks Vote, said: 
    “We listened to grassroots climate hawks in the district before endorsing, and Susheela is the near-unanimous choice. We’re looking forward to working with her, and joining her working on behalf of her constituents, in Congress.”

    Sam Bernhardt, Political Director at Food & Water Action, said: 
    “As County Commissioner, Susheela Jayapal fought fossil fuel infrastructure and sued oil and gas corporations over the heat dome that killed dozens of her constituents. We need big action and big commitment like this, which is why we need Susheela Jayapal in Congress.”

    Ariel Moger, Government & Political Affairs Director at Friends of the Earth Action, said: 
    “Friends of the Earth Action is committed to supporting candidates who unequivocally put people and the planet over corporate profit, which is why we’re thrilled to endorse Susheela Jayapal. Her willingness to fight big polluters makes her an ideal fit for Congress. We encourage voters in Oregon to support her at the ballot box for the sake of local communities and the climate.”

    Zanagee Artis, Executive Director at Zero Hour, said: 
    “Susheela Jayapal is a fierce advocate for environmental justice and we are proud to endorse her candidacy to represent Oregon’s third district in Congress. Jayapal is a Green New Deal Champion and we know that she will fight alongside the climate movement to phase out fossil fuels as a member of Congress.”

    ###

    Oil Change U.S. is a national organization focused on exposing the true costs of fossil fuels, supporting real climate leadership, and building a just, equitable, and renewable energy future in the United States. Oil Change U.S. is one of several organizations that coordinates the national No Fossil Fuel Money pledge and the national Green New Deal Champions campaign. For more information, please visit OilChangeUS.org.

  • National Environmental Groups Endorse Rep. Jamaal Bowman’s Re-Election to Congress

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    Contact: 
    Allie Rosenbluth, allie@priceofoil.org
    Sam Bernhardt, sbernhardt@fwwatch.org
    Brett Hartl, bretthartl@centeractionfund.org

    National Environmental Groups Endorse Jamaal Bowman’s Re-Election to Congress

    Rep. Bowman has championed climate justice initiatives throughout his time in Congress

    WASHINGTON — A group of national environmental advocacy organizations is endorsing Rep. Jamaal Bowman’s reelection campaign. Oil Change U.S., Center for Biological Diversity Action, Food & Water Action, and Zero Hour spoke out in support of Rep. Bowman ahead of a potential primary.

    Since his election in 2020, Rep. Bowman has been among the strongest voices in Congress for climate action, working to expand the power and breadth of the climate movement with proposals like his Green New Deal for Public Schools. Bowman’s advocacy helped pave the way for the Inflation Reduction Act, the largest clean energy legislation ever passed by Congress. Bowman has also lent his voice to state efforts, for instance calling on state elected officials to pass the Build Public Renewables Act in 2022 (the bill was passed in 2023). 

    Westchester County Executive George Latimer is weighing a primary challenge to Bowman, likely with the expectation that if he were to run, he can count on millions in SuperPAC spending to attack Bowman.

    Allie Rosenbluth, Political Director at Oil Change U.S., said: 
    “Oil Change U.S. strongly endorses Jamaal Bowman’s campaign for reelection. Representative Bowman has been one of the strongest advocates for climate justice in Congress, while prioritizing working with communities most impacted by the issue. His leadership on climate is a clear demonstration of how Congress should be taking on this crisis.” 

    Brett Hartl, Chief Political Strategist at Center for Biological Diversity Action, said: 
    “Representative Bowman has been one of the strongest voices pushing for this country to take stronger actions to address the climate crisis and environmental justice. We need more members like him willing to stand up to powerful polluters and the worst elements of the MAGA Republicans, and we strongly support his reelection to Congress.”

    Sam Bernhardt, Political Director at Food & Water Action, said: 
    “With our planet on the brink of ever-deepening climate chaos, we must be laser-focused on supporting Congress members like Jamaal Bowman — a through-and-through fossil fuel fighter and a champion of clean, renewable energy for all.”

    Zanagee Artis, Executive Director at Zero Hour, said: 
    “Representative Jamaal Bowman continues to be a champion for environmental justice and young people in Congress, and Zero Hour is proud to endorse his candidacy again. Representative Bowman demonstrates what it really means to represent young people and care about the issues that impact us.”

    ###

    Oil Change U.S. is a national organization focused on exposing the true costs of fossil fuels, supporting real climate leadership, and building a just, equitable, and renewable energy future in the United States. Oil Change U.S. is one of several organizations that coordinates the national No Fossil Fuel Money pledge and the national Green New Deal Champions campaign. For more information, please visit OilChangeUS.org.

  • National Environmental Groups Endorse Aaron Regunberg for U.S. House, RI-01

    For Immediate Release

    Contact: 
    Allie Rosenbluth, allie@priceofoil.org

    National Environmental Groups Endorse Aaron Regunberg for U.S. House, RI-01

    WASHINGTON — Today, Oil Change U.S., Center for Biological Diversity Action, Food & Water Action, and Friends of the Earth Action announced their endorsement of Aaron Regunberg for Rhode Island’s First Congressional district.

    As State Representative, Regunberg was among the first state elected officials to speak out against a fracked gas power plant in Burrillville, which was eventually defeated. He also helped fight a proposed LNG export terminal in Providence.

    The groups join other climate and progressive groups including Progressive Democrats of America, Climate Hawks Vote, Jane Fonda Climate PAC and Climate Action Rhode Island. Together, these national progressive environmental groups represent tens of thousands of Rhode Island voters. 

    Allie Rosenbluth, Oil Change U.S. Campaigns Director, offered the following statement:

    “As communities across the country experience devastating impacts of climate change and the United States remains world’s the largest expander of oil and gas, it’s clear we need more leaders in congress ready to take on the fossil fuel industry. Oil Change U.S. is excited to endorse Aaron Regunberg, who has the experience and commitment to bold climate action Rhode Island and the country needs.”

    Stephanie Kurose, Northeast Political Director of the Center for Biological Diversity Action Fund, offered the following statement:

    “Aaron Regunberg cares deeply about solving the issues of eastern Rhode Island communities, from fighting for environmental justice to confronting the climate emergency. He’s exactly the type of bold, progressive leader we need in Congress and we’re honored to endorse him.”

    Ariel Moger, Government and Political Affairs Director of Friends of the Earth Action, offered the following statement:

    “We are thrilled to endorse Aaron Regunberg for Congress. Aaron is no stranger to holding Big Oil accountable and is not afraid to take much-needed urgent action to address the climate crisis. Rhode Islanders can count on Aaron to be a bold environmental champion and we urge them to support him this September.”

    Sam Bernhardt, Political Director of Food & Water Action, offered the following statement:

    “Aaron is a climate leader who has gone toe-to-toe with the fossil fuel industry in Rhode Island for years. We will work hard to get Aaron elected so he can represent his constituents and this critical movement against fossil fuels in the halls of Congress.”

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    Oil Change U.S. is a national organization focused on exposing the true costs of fossil fuels, supporting real climate leadership, and building a just, equitable, and renewable energy future in the United States. Oil Change U.S. is one of several organizations that coordinates the national No Fossil Fuel Money pledge. For more information, please visit OilChangeUS.org.

  • Oil Change U.S. Condemns Nellie Gorbea for Fundraiser Hosted by Fossil Fuel Lobbyist

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    June 28, 2022

    Contact: 
    Collin Rees, collin@priceofoil.org

    Oil Change U.S. Condemns Nellie Gorbea for Fundraiser Hosted by Fossil Fuel Lobbyist

    Earlier this month on June 10, Rhode Island Secretary of State Nellie Gorbea — who is running for governor — held a campaign fundraiser hosted by prominent fossil fuel lobbyist Tonio Burguos in New York. Tickets for the fundraiser, held at Burgos’ lobbying firm, started at $250. 

    Burgos is a prominent Democratic National Committee member and a well-known lobbyist for fossil fuel companies — he has lobbied for heavily fossil-fueled utility National Grid, earned millions lobbying for oil producer Williams Companies, and is currently lobbying for Valero, the world’s largest petroleum refiner. He is also a controversial figure in New England politics, as former U.S. Rep. Joe Kennedy took money from Burgos in his campaign against U.S. Sen. Ed Markey in violation of his No Fossil Fuel Money pledge and ultimately returned the contributions. 

    Nellie Gorbea’s campaign claims a commitment to “acting on climate” with a goal of net-zero emissions by 2050. But companies like Valero have refused to commit to clear net-zero plans, and even fossil fuel companies who’ve been more forthcoming have been heavily criticized for the inadequacy of their plans and continued fossil fuel production. Gorbea has so far refused to sign the No Fossil Fuel Money pledge, a national effort signed by thousands of politicians urging candidates to reject contributions from fossil fuel PACs, executives, and lobbyists. 

    In response to Secretary of State Gorbea’s fundraiser, Oil Change U.S. Campaigns Director Collin Rees released the following statement: 

    “Anyone claiming the mantle of climate action must reject ties to Big Oil and Gas — it’s really that simple. Fossil fuel companies are wrecking the planet and endangering Rhode Islanders, and lobbyists like Tonio Burgos are profiting from this devastation. 

    “Nellie Gorbea should join over 100 Rhode Island political leaders and thousands of politicians nationwide, including President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris, in pledging to reject fossil fuel money. If she won’t, she has absolutely no credibility on climate.” 

    ###

    Notes to Editors

    – More info on Tonio Burgos’ lobbying and fossil fuel connections can be found here. 

    – More info on the No Fossil Fuel Money pledge can be found here. Rhode Island signers of the pledge can be found here. 

    Oil Change U.S. is a national organization focused on exposing the true costs of fossil fuels, supporting real climate leadership, and building a just, equitable, and renewable energy future in the United States. Oil Change U.S. is one of several organizations that coordinates the national No Fossil Fuel Money pledge. For more information, please visit OilChangeUS.org.

  • Oil Change U.S. and Progressive Groups Announce ‘Green New Deal Champions’ Pledge

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    March 28, 2022

    Contact:
    Collin Rees, Oil Change U.S., collin@priceofoil.org
    Ellen Sciales, Sunrise Movement, ellen@sunrisemovement.org

    Progressive Groups Announce ‘Green New Deal Champions’ Pledge

    WASHINGTON, DC — Today, nearly 50 organizations launched the Green New Deal Champions Pledge, aimed at pushing candidates to champion the climate policy we need when in office, and to hold current members accountable to a standard of support for the Green New Deal. 

    It’s been three years since Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Senator Ed Markey introduced the Green New Deal Resolution, which outlined a new vision for our country and our movement: one where we avert the worst of the climate crisis, create millions of good paying union jobs, and invest in communities on the front line of the climate crisis.  

    Since then, multiple pieces of substantial climate legislation, guided by communities at the frontlines of the climate crisis, have been introduced that build towards the Green New Deal. We know we need to win federal climate legislation to tackle this crisis, but we can’t wait until we have the right majorities in Congress to get to work. We need to do everything we can right now, to pressure our elected officials to support the bills that will put us on the path to a Green New Deal —  that’s how we’ll set ourselves up to win legislation when the moment comes. The text of the Green New Deal Champions Pledge can be found here.

    The Green New Deal continues to be popular with voters across the country. Recent polling from Data for Progress shows that Green New Deal bills have overwhelming support, while young people, a key voting block for Democrats, continue to support climate legislation and action by massive margins. The Green New Deal Pledge is expected to have the same effect as the popular No Fossil Fuel Money Pledge, which has changed the nature of campaigning since its establishment by toxifying money from fossil fuel lobbyists, PACs, and executives.

    Progressive movement groups, sitting electeds, and congressional candidates issued the following statements on the pledge: 

    Quote Sheet

    “I’m proud to sign this pledge. Our generation will be facing the repercussions of the climate policy decisions we make in the years to come. We deserve representatives who are accountable to their constituents, not fossil fuel companies,” said Nida Allam, congressional candidate in NC-04. 

    “Texas working families are seeing the climate crisis first-hand — whether it’s winter storms, flooding, or tornadoes in our backyards. We need to tackle this crisis. We can create good union jobs and preserve our planet for future generations. The Green New Deal does both,” said Greg Casar, congressional candidate in TX-35. 

    “I’m proud to sign the Green New Deal pledge. Our communities here in Chicago are in crisis — climate change is an existential threat, racial and economic injustices are raging. We need bold solutions like the Green New Deal that will combat climate change, environmental racism, and the injustices that persist in Chicago. And we need a new generation of leaders who will fight for the Green New Deal with the urgency that this moment demands,” said Kina Collins, congressional candidate in IL-07. 

    “My community is hurting. The climate crisis has claimed lives and livelihoods. A rigged economy has left us with wages that are stagnant, businesses closing, and new job opportunities few and far between. The Green New Deal takes on the defining challenges of our time and transforms them into the pathway to a brighter future. For the air I breathe, for the people I love, and for the place I call home, I’m taking the Green New Deal pledge and look forward to supporting this legislation in Congress,” said Erica Smith, congressional candidate in NC-01. 

    “The Green New Deal is about jobs, justice, and dismantling systemic racism that’s poisoning the lungs and futures of Black and Brown people in St. Louis and all across the country. We need to act now, and that means making sure politicians understand the urgency of this crisis. I’m proud to be part of an effort to hold people in positions of power accountable to the solutions we know are needed to address environmental racism, confront the fossil fuel industry, and realize true climate justice,” said U.S. Rep. Cori Bush of MO-01. 

    “I am immensely proud to be an original Green New Deal Champion with an amazing list of colleagues and friends. It is easy to say that climate change is an existential crisis, but words aren’t enough — we need real legislation that delivers rapid, comprehensive, transformative change. While organizers continue to strengthen and define the Green New Deal from the bottom, this project holds those in power accountable to the demands of activists and cements robust economic and racial justice standards in the Green New Deal. We have a long way to go, but I encourage every Congressperson to join me in taking this next step. Together, we will win a Green New Deal this decade,” said U.S. Rep. Andy Levin of MI-09. 

    “Since I introduced the Green New Deal with Congresswoman Ocasio-Cortez, the climate crisis has only become more severe. We have to act now to deliver justice for communities on the frontlines of this crisis and create millions of green-collar jobs to save our economy and save our planet. I’m proud to stand with my colleagues in the House and Senate, and with an entire generation committed to climate justice,” said in the fight for a Green New Deal,” said U.S. Sen. Ed Markey of Massachusetts. 

    “The threat posed by the climate crisis is growing by the day and we need to come together to take aggressive action to create a more sustainable economy and promote environmental justice. I am proud to be an original cosponsor of the Green New Deal resolution and I will keep fighting to pass my BUILD GREEN Infrastructure and Jobs Act to deliver robust federal investment to help fight the growing climate crisis, spur innovation, and boost demand for American-made clean energy products,” said U.S. Sen. Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts. 

    “The Green New Deal Champions effort provides an exciting opportunity to advance a transformative agenda to end the fossil era, help working people, and catalyze a just energy transition. Rejecting fossil fuel money and committing to these key bills to phase out fossil fuels and build an equitable clean energy future are now clear requirements for politicians claiming the mantle of ‘climate leadership.’ With dozens of critical primary and general elections this year, we’ll see which candidates and elected officials are truly willing to stand up to Big Oil and Gas’s lies and fight for our communities,” said Collin Rees, Political Director at Oil Change U.S.

    “There is no denying that the climate crisis is at our doorsteps and continues to disproportionately devastate young, Black, brown, and immigrant communities both in the U.S. and around the world. From undocumented farmworkers facing increasingly deadly wildfires in places like California to millions of climate refugees displaced by extreme flooding, droughts, and other disasters, it’s clear that there is no climate justice without immigrant justice and racial justice. The Green New Deal Resolution, alone, is not enough to combat the worsening climate catastrophe. In order to ensure ALL communities are protected, elected officials must also deliver on other bold, progressive legislation that includes a pathway to citizenship for undocumented people without growing detention and enforcement, like the Dream and Promise Act, and helps pave the way for a more just future for Black and brown immigrant communities bearing the brunt of climate change,” said Juliana Macedo do Nascimento, Senior Advocacy Manager of United We Dream. 

    “The Green New Deal means robust public investment to transition off of fossil fuels translating into unprecedented investment in the well-being of everyday working people — our jobs, our utility bills, our health, and our future. The GND Pledge allows us to show candidates and the world what support for a Green New Deal really means, and allows us to talk about how the GND will deliver for working people. The Working Families Party is proud to support it,” said Maurice Mitchell, National Director of Working Families Party. 

    “As fossil fuel corporations destroy our communities and profit off of working families at the gas pump, our government has yet to pass climate legislation that meets the moment of crisis. And yet, support for the Green New Deal has never been greater. That’s why we’re launching Green New Deal Champions because we need members of Congress and elected officials to fight as hard as they can for the Green New Deal. We must pass the climate bills that make the GND a reality — the GND Resolution is our North Star and the GND bills help us get there,” said Varshini Prakash, Executive Director of Sunrise Movement.

    The list of current Green New Deal Champions, Green New Deal Pledge Signers, and endorsing organizations are below: 

    Members of Congress Who Are Current Green New Deal Champions: 

    – Sen. Ed Markey (MA)

    – Sen. Elizabeth Warren (MA)

    – Sen. Bernie Sanders (VT)

    – Rep. Ro Khanna (CA-17)

    – Rep. Nanette Diaz Barragán (CA-44)

    – Rep. Marie Newman (IL-03)

    – Rep. Jesús “Chuy” García (IL-04)

    – Rep. Jan Schakowsky (IL-09) 

    – Rep. Jim McGovern (MA-02)

    – Rep. Ayanna Pressley (MA-07)

    – Rep. Jamie Raskin (MD-08)

    – Rep. Andy Levin (MI-09)

    – Rep. Rashida Tlaib (MI-13)

    – Rep. Ilhan Omar (MN-05)

    – Rep. Cori Bush (MO-01)

    – Rep. Jerrold Nadler (NY-10)

    – Rep. Carolyn Maloney (NY-12)

    – Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (NY-14)

    – Rep. Jamaal Bowman (NY-16)

    – Rep. Mondaire Jones (NY-17)

    – Rep. Earl Blumenauer (OR-03)

    – Rep. Pramila Jayapal (WA-07)

    Congressional Candidates Who Have Signed the Green New Deal Champions Pledge: 

    – David Peterson (CA-03)

    – Bianca Von Krieg (CA-11)

    – Derek Marshall (CA-23)

    – Angelica Dueñas (CA-29)

    – Shervin Aazami (CA-32)

    – David Kim (CA-34)

    – Daniel Lee (CA-37)

    – Peter Mathews (CA-42)

    – Michael Ortega (CA-46)

    – Adam Schindler (CA-50)

    – Kylie Taitano (CA-50)

    – Neal Walia (CO-01)

    – Rebekah Jones (FL-01)

    – Maxwell Alejandro Frost (FL-10)

    – Cindy Banyai (FL-19)

    – Vincent Fort (GA-13)

    – Kirby Birgans (IL-01)

    – Jahmal Cole (IL-01)

    – Iymen Chehade (IL-03)

    – Delia Ramirez (IL-03)

    – Kina Collins (IL-07)

    – Junaid Ahmed (IL-08)

    – Attica Scott (KY-03)

    – Mckayla Wilkes (MD-05)

    – Shri Thanedar (MI-13)

    – Ernest Joseph Oppegaard-Peltier III (MN-07)

    – Erica Smith (NC-01)

    – Nida Allam (NC-04)

    – Ashley Ward (NC-04)

    – David Ocampo Grajales (NJ-08)

    – Imani Oakley (NJ-10)

    – Melanie D’Arrigo (NY-03)

    – Rana Abdelhamid (NY-12)

    – Vanessa Fajans-Turner (NY-22)

    – Nina Turner (OH-11)

    – Sami Al-Abdrabbuh (OR-04)

    – Doyle Canning (OR-04)

    – Alexandra Hunt (PA-03)

    – Summer Lee (PA-12)

    – David Segal (RI-02)

    – Jessica Cisneros (TX-28)

    – Greg Casar (TX-35)

    – Ally Dalsimer (VA-11)

    – Kesha Ram Hinsdale (VT-AL)

    – Jason Call (WA-02)

    – Stephanie Gallardo (WA-09)

    Green New Deal Champions Partner Organizations: 

    – 350 Action

    – Alliance for Youth Action

    – American Federation of Teachers 

    – Association of Flight Attendants – Communications Workers of America

    – Black Lives Matter Global Network Foundation

    – Caring Across Generations

    – Center for Biological Diversity Action Fund

    – Center for Popular Democracy

    – Chesapeake Climate Action Network Action Fund

    – Climate Hawks Vote

    – Climate Justice Alliance

    – Common Defense

    – Dogwood Alliance

    – Food & Water Action

    – Friends of the Earth Action

    – Future Coalition

    – Gen-Z for Change

    – Grassroots Global Justice Alliance

    – Green New Deal Network

    – GreenFaith

    – GreenLatinos

    – Greenpeace USA

    – Indigenous Environmental Network

    – Indivisible

    – Kentuckians For The Commonwealth

    – Kentucky Student Environmental Coalition

    – Labor Network for Sustainability

    – March For Our Lives

    – Michigan Environmental Justice Coalition Action!

    – Mothers Out Front 

    – National Domestic Workers Alliance

    – Native Organizers Alliance

    – NDN Collective

    – New York Renews

    – Oil Change U.S.

    – Our Climate

    – Our Revolution

    – People’s Action

    – Progressive Democrats of America

    – Public Citizen

    – RuralOrganizing.org 

    – Social Security Works

    – Sunrise Movement

    – United Electrical, Radio & Machine Workers of America (UE)

    – United We Dream Action

    – WE ACT for Environmental Justice

    – Working Families Party

    – Zero Hour

    ###

  • National Environmental Groups Endorse Doyle Canning in Oregon Congressional Race

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    March 17, 2022

    Contact:
    Collin Rees, collin@priceofoil.org

    National Environmental Groups Endorse Doyle Canning in Oregon Congressional Race

    WASHINGTON, DC — Today, Oil Change U.S., the Center for Biological Diversity Action Fund, Food & Water Action, Friends of the Earth Action, and Zero Hour announced their endorsement of Doyle Canning for Oregon’s 4th Congressional district, joining Progressive Democrats of America. Together, these national progressive environmental groups represent tens of thousands of Oregon voters. 

    Collin Rees, Political Director at Oil Change U.S., said: “Doyle Canning has been a steadfast champion for climate, economic, and racial justice her entire career — she is exactly the type of leader Congress needs to combat the climate crisis and improve the lives of working people. Doyle has never hesitated to fight for her community’s needs, stand up to Big Oil and Gas, or reject the dirty money polluting our politics. Doyle knows that working together is the only way to overcome the immense crises we face, and we’re proud to endorse her.”

    Quinn Read, Oregon Political Director at the Center for Biological Diversity Action Fund, said: “Doyle Canning is exactly the kind of leader that Congress and Oregon need — one who will fight environmental injustice and fearlessly advocate for real climate solutions. For decades, Canning has built community-focused movements for racial justice, environmental restoration and a stable climate future. I know she will work every day in Congress to ensure a safer, healthier planet for all.”

    Sam Bernhardt, Political Director at Food & Water Action, said: “When it really mattered, Doyle Canning stood with her community in fighting a fossil fuel pipeline and export terminal, while her opponent in the upcoming primary stood with the fossil fuel corporations and their profits. Doyle has the experience as an environmental lawyer and progressive policy strategist to secure many more wins for the working families of Oregon and the climate, and we’re proud to stand with her.”

    Ariel Moger, Government and Political Affairs Manager at Friends of the Earth Action, said: “It has never been more important to elect leaders like Doyle Canning to Congress. Canning has a proven track record of standing up to Big Polluters and defeating dirty fossil fuel infrastructure projects. She has been an unwavering advocate for people and the planet and will undoubtedly continue to fight for communities and the environment in Congress. Friends of the Earth Action is proud to endorse Doyle Canning and strongly urges voters in Oregon’s 4th Congressional district to support her in the May primary.”

    Zanagee Artis, Executive Director of Zero Hour, said: “Zero Hour is proud to endorse Doyle Canning’s campaign for OR-04 because Congress needs more movement leaders like Doyle. Doyle Canning has personally shaped many of the most inspiring campaigns and wins of the last 20 years, from Keystone XL to Jordan Cove to getting fossil fuel lobbyists out of the United Nations Climate Negotiations and getting fossil fuel subsidies out of the Build Back Better Act. Zero Hour is ready to send Doyle Canning to Congress because we know that she will continue to work alongside the climate justice movement to end our reliance on fossil fuels as a member of Congress.”

    Alan Minsky, Executive Director at Progressive Democrats of America, said: “Progressive Democrats of America is thrilled to be joining with this great collection of national environmental organizations in supporting Doyle Canning, a true climate champion, for Congress in OR-4. Simply put, we can no longer accept the failure of political leadership to address the realities of the climate emergency and environmental racism. We need powerful advocates like Doyle in Congress, who will never waiver from what both science and justice demand is necessary. We strongly urge all voters in Oregon’s 4th District to support Doyle Canning in the May Democratic primary and the November general election.”

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