Climate progressives won the midterms without saying ‘climate’

Climate-focused progressive candidates won midterm races while often avoiding the phrase “Green New Deal”, which opponents used to attack them. The article argues that this reflects a shift in how climate policy is presented: linked to household costs, local environmental concerns and corporate power.

Michigan Democrat Abdul El-Sayed won his Senate race after campaigning on issues including tighter rules for data centres and energy companies, despite not mentioning the Green New Deal at a candidates’ event. The Climate and Community Institute assessed candidates on support for renewable energy, plans to address living costs and a populist critique of powerful corporations; it also highlighted Will Lawrence, elected to represent Michigan’s 7th District, who has pledged to work on climate, water and energy policy and reduce electricity bills.