Candidates' Debate on Energy and Environment Is Tonight

Our friends over at Grist are sponsoring a debate tonight (2 p.m. PST, 5 p.m. EST) for the presidential candidates billed as the "first-ever presidential candidate forum focusing on the issues of energy policy and climate change."

We share Grist's frustration that the (many) previous debates have lacked an in-depth exploration of environmental and energy issues, and wholeheartedly support the effort to put the candidates on the record (and on the spot). Thanks in part to the work of Grist and the League of Conservation Voters, the Democrats have outlined detailed energy and global warming plans, and Republicans are at least talking a lot about energy independence.

While all 16 major party candidates were invited, only Hillary Clinton, John Edwards and Dennis Kucinich accepted, according to Grist.

It's a shame that more candidates didn't take up the invitation. That is, they should be ashamed. The intersection of global warming, energy policy and national security is the critical issue of this election. It's not respectful of the American public to avoid deep debate on these issues.

Still, the political theater could be great, with Clinton having just beefed up her energy plan, and underdog Edwards looking to score points. Kucinich has some more progressive (or radical, depending on your perspective) views that could push the other contenders to reveal more about their way of thinking. And, with Hillary leading in the Democratic polls, and Democrats leading Republicans in general polls, this could be a chance to see a leading candidate talk with more depth — and be put on the spot — about critical issues.

To learn more about the debate, or to watch on the Web, check out Grist.

To bone up on the candidates' energy and environmental stances beforehand, see The Daily Green's Green Your Vote 2008.

COMMENTS ()