Podcast appearances and mentions of benji backer

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 3, 2025 6:28

As I delve into the intricacies of Project 2025, a comprehensive policy initiative crafted by the Heritage Foundation, it becomes clear that this is more than just a set of recommendations – it's a blueprint for a radical transformation of the American government. This 900-page manifesto, designed to guide a potential conservative administration, outlines sweeping reforms that touch every facet of federal governance, from education and environmental policy to media regulation and disaster response.At its core, Project 2025 is about consolidating executive power and reshaping the federal government in a distinctly conservative image. One of the most striking aspects of this plan is its vision for education. The project advocates for the elimination of the Department of Education, transferring its responsibilities to the states and significantly reducing federal involvement in education policy. This includes ending federal funding for programs like Title I, which provides crucial support to schools in low-income areas, and dismantling the Head Start program that serves over a million children from low-income families[1][4][5].Roger Severino, a key figure associated with the project, has argued that Head Start does not provide value, though he has not provided evidence to support this claim. Instead, Project 2025 promotes school vouchers with no strings attached, even for private or religious schools, and cuts to funding for free school meals. This approach reflects a fundamental shift in how education is viewed – from a public good to a private one[1].The project's stance on education is just one part of a broader critique of what it terms "federal government overreach." In the realm of civil rights, Project 2025 proposes significant curtailments. It recommends ending federal investigations into schools for disparate impacts of disciplinary measures on the basis of race or ethnicity and transferring civil rights enforcement responsibilities from the Department of Education to the Department of Justice, where enforcement would be limited to litigation[1].This theme of reducing federal oversight extends to environmental policy as well. Project 2025 seeks to dismantle key components of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), including the Office of Environmental Justice and External Civil Rights. It advocates for reversing the EPA's 2009 finding that carbon dioxide emissions are harmful to human health, thereby preventing the federal government from regulating greenhouse gas emissions. The project also supports increased consumption of natural gas, despite concerns from climatologists about methane leaks, and aims to block the expansion of the national electrical grid and the transition to renewable energy[1].The project's climate policy is particularly contentious, with even some Republican climate advocates disagreeing with its stance. Benji Backer, founder of the American Conservation Coalition, has noted a growing consensus among younger Republicans that human activity causes climate change and has called Project 2025's approach "wrongheaded"[1].In addition to these policy proposals, Project 2025 also outlines a vision for media and technology policies. It suggests increasing agency accountability at the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) while reducing what it deems "wasteful spending." The project promotes national security and economic prosperity through measures like expanding 5G connectivity and requiring Big Tech companies to contribute to the Universal Service Fund. However, critics argue that these recommendations could endanger democratic institutions and concentrate presidential power[2].The project's impact on disaster response is another area of concern. It proposes reforming the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) by shifting the majority of preparedness and response costs to states and localities. This includes ending preparedness grants for states and localities, a move that aligns with Trump's recent suggestions to leave disaster response management to the states[3].Project 2025 also delves into the realm of public health and social welfare. It advocates for withdrawing from the World Health Organization, a move Trump has already made and then reversed during his previous administration. The project criticizes the WHO's handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and suggests that the U.S. should be prepared to take drastic measures against international organizations that act contrary to U.S. interests[3].The economic and social implications of these proposals are far-reaching. Project 2025 suggests cutting overtime protections for 4.3 million workers, limiting access to food assistance for over 40 million people, and restricting safety nets for farmers. It also proposes eliminating funding for key public transportation projects and consolidating or eliminating programs like the Economic Development Administration (EDA), which has invested billions in transformative infrastructure projects[5].Critics, including Democrats and some independent experts, have been vocal about the dangers of Project 2025. They argue that its recommendations could dismantle civil liberties, concentrate presidential power, and endanger democratic institutions. James Singer, a spokesperson for the Biden campaign, has likened the project to an attempt to make Trump a "tyrannical king" at the expense of American democracy[4].Despite Trump's public distancing from the project, there is significant overlap between his policies and those outlined in Project 2025. The Heritage Foundation emphasizes that while the project does not speak for any candidate, it is ultimately up to the president to decide which recommendations to implement. This ambiguity has led to a heated political debate, with Democrats using Project 2025 as a rallying cry against Trump's potential second term[4].As the 2025 presidential term approaches, Project 2025 stands as a pivotal document that could shape the future of American governance. Its proposals are not just policy recommendations but a vision for a fundamentally different role of the federal government in American life. Whether these changes will come to fruition remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: Project 2025 represents a seismic shift in the political landscape, one that will be closely watched and fiercely debated in the months to come.

"Transforming America: Project 2025's Sweeping Conservative Vision Sparks Debate"

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 30, 2025 7:20

As I delve into the intricacies of Project 2025, a comprehensive and contentious initiative spearheaded by the Heritage Foundation, it becomes clear that this is more than just a policy blueprint – it's a vision for a fundamentally transformed American governance.Project 2025 is the culmination of efforts by over 400 scholars and conservative groups, led by former Trump administration officials Paul Dans and Spencer Chretien. This 900-page manifesto outlines a sweeping overhaul of federal policies, aiming to reshape the government in line with conservative principles. The project is structured around four key pillars: a detailed policy guide, a database of potential personnel, a training program for these candidates, and a playbook for actions to be taken within the first 180 days of a new administration[2][4].One of the most striking aspects of Project 2025 is its approach to education. The initiative criticizes what it terms "woke propaganda" in public schools and advocates for a significant reduction in the federal government's role in education. This includes closing the Department of Education and transferring its responsibilities to the states. Programs under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) would be administered by the Department of Health and Human Services, and the National Center for Education Statistics would become part of the Census Bureau. The federal government, according to Project 2025, should merely keep statistics, rather than enforcing civil rights in schools or investigating disparate impacts of disciplinary measures on racial or ethnic grounds[1].The project also proposes drastic changes in education funding. It suggests allowing Title I of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 to expire, which would remove $18 billion in federal funds for schools in low-income areas. Instead, public funds would be available as school vouchers, even for parents sending their children to private or religious schools. This shift is part of a broader philosophy that views education as a private rather than a public good[1].In the realm of environmental policy, Project 2025's vision is equally radical. It seeks to downsize the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), close the EPA's Office of Environmental Justice and External Civil Rights, and reverse the 2009 EPA finding that carbon dioxide emissions are harmful to human health. This would prevent the federal government from regulating greenhouse gas emissions. The project also advocates for blocking the expansion of the national electrical grid, stymying the transition to renewable energy, and relaxing regulations on the fossil fuel industry. For instance, it suggests removing restrictions on oil drilling imposed by the Bureau of Land Management and promoting Arctic drilling[1].The implications of these environmental policies are far-reaching. Nonpartisan experts warn that without expanding the electrical grid, renewable energy projects will have to slow down. Additionally, the project's stance on climate change mitigation is at odds with many Republicans who acknowledge the importance of addressing climate change. Benji Backer, founder of the American Conservation Coalition, has criticized Project 2025's climate policies as "wrongheaded" and noted a growing consensus among younger Republicans that human activity causes climate change[1].Project 2025 also targets other federal agencies and programs. It proposes reforming the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) by shifting the majority of preparedness and response costs to states and localities. This move is justified by the argument that FEMA is "overtasked" and "overcompensates for the lack of state and local preparedness and response." The project further suggests ending preparedness grants for states and localities, arguing that these grants should be terminated to prevent the Department of Homeland Security from "handing out federal tax dollars"[3].In the area of technology and media, Project 2025's recommendations are equally sweeping. It calls for increasing agency accountability while decreasing wasteful spending at the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). The project also advocates for promoting national security and economic prosperity by supporting the expansion of 5G networks and satellite technologies like StarLink. Additionally, it suggests that Big Tech companies should contribute to the Universal Service Fund, which is currently funded through telephone bills[4].The project's approach to civil rights and social policies is another contentious area. It proposes rolling back diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs across federal agencies, arguing that these policies can violate federal civil rights laws. Project 2025 also aims to dismantle the DEI apparatus in various agencies and eliminate terms like "DEI," "abortion," and "gender equality" from federal rules and regulations. This stance aligns with Trump's executive order ending all DEI programs within the federal government, which he claimed could shut out Americans "who deserve a shot at the American dream" due to their race or sex[3].Critics of Project 2025, including Democrats and some Republicans, have been vocal about its potential impacts. Vice President Kamala Harris has described the project as a plan to "return America to a dark past," and President Biden has accused Trump of lying about his connections to the initiative, stating that it "should scare every single American"[2].Despite Trump's public disavowal of Project 2025, the initiative's connections to his administration are undeniable. Former high-ranking officials like Ben Carson, John Ratcliffe, and Peter Navarro are listed as authors or contributors to the policy agenda. This close association has led critics to argue that Project 2025 is essentially a blueprint for a second Trump term, one that could endanger democratic institutions and concentrate presidential power[2][4].As the 2024 elections approach, Project 2025 stands as a significant milestone in the debate over the future of American governance. Its proposals, if implemented, would mark a profound shift in federal policies, from education and environmental regulation to technology and civil rights. Whether these changes would be beneficial or detrimental remains a subject of intense debate.In the words of Heritage Foundation President Kevin Roberts, the nation is "in the process of the second American Revolution," which he hopes will remain bloodless. However, the radical nature of Project 2025's proposals has raised concerns among many that this revolution could come at a steep cost to democratic values and social welfare[2].As we move forward, the fate of Project 2025 will likely be decided in the political arena. Will its vision for a more conservative, decentralized government prevail, or will it face significant resistance from those who see it as a threat to the fabric of American society? The answer will depend on the choices made by voters, policymakers, and the next administration. One thing is certain, however: Project 2025 has set the stage for a critical conversation about the future of America, one that will shape the country's trajectory for years to come.

Radical Transformation Ahead: The Conservative Vision of Project 2025 Unveiled

C-SPAN Radio - Washington Today

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 30, 2025 7:13

As I delve into the intricacies of Project 2025, a comprehensive and contentious initiative spearheaded by the Heritage Foundation, it becomes clear that this is more than just a policy blueprint – it's a vision for a fundamentally transformed American governance.Project 2025 is the culmination of efforts by over 400 scholars and conservative groups, led by former Trump administration officials such as Paul Dans and Spencer Chretien. This 900-page manifesto outlines a sweeping overhaul of federal policies, aiming to reshape the government in line with conservative principles. The project is structured around four key pillars: a detailed policy guide, a database of potential personnel, a training program for these candidates, and a playbook for actions to be taken within the first 180 days of a new administration[2][4].One of the most striking aspects of Project 2025 is its approach to education. The initiative criticizes what it terms "woke propaganda" in public schools, advocating for a significant reduction in the federal government's role in education. This includes closing the Department of Education and transferring control over education funding and policy to the states. The proposal also suggests that programs under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) be administered by the Department of Health and Human Services, and that the National Center for Education Statistics become part of the Census Bureau. The federal government, according to Project 2025, should be limited to a statistics-keeping role in education, with federal enforcement of civil rights in schools curtailed and transferred to the Department of Justice[1].The implications of these changes are profound. For instance, Title I of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965, which provides $18 billion in federal funds for schools in low-income areas, would be allowed to expire. Instead, public funds would be available as school vouchers, even for parents sending their children to private or religious schools. This shift could drastically alter the educational landscape, potentially exacerbating existing inequalities. As Roger Severino, a proponent of the project, has argued, the Head Start program, which serves over a million children from low-income families, does not provide value, although he has not provided evidence to support this claim[1].Project 2025's vision extends far beyond education. In the realm of environmental policy, the initiative is starkly at odds with current climate change mitigation efforts. It advocates for downsizing the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), closing the EPA's Office of Environmental Justice and External Civil Rights, and reversing the 2009 EPA finding that carbon dioxide emissions are harmful to human health. This would prevent the federal government from regulating greenhouse gas emissions. The project also supports the expansion of fossil fuel use, including Arctic drilling, and encourages allied nations to rely on fossil fuels. Diana Furchtgott-Roth, Heritage Foundation's energy and climate director, has suggested that the EPA should support increased consumption of natural gas, despite concerns about methane leaks[1].These environmental proposals have been met with significant criticism. Republican climate advocates, such as Sarah E. Hunt and Benji Backer, have disagreed with Project 2025's climate policies, emphasizing the importance of supporting good energy and climate policy. Backer noted a growing consensus among younger Republicans that human activity causes climate change, calling Project 2025's stance "wrongheaded"[1].The project's impact on federal agencies is another critical area of focus. Project 2025 recommends reforming the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) by shifting the majority of preparedness and response costs to states and localities. This aligns with Trump's past suggestions to leave disaster response management to the states, arguing that "that's what states are for, to take care of problems"[3].In addition, the initiative calls for the dismantling of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs across federal agencies. Trump has echoed this sentiment, signing an executive order to end all DEI programs within the federal government, claiming they can violate federal civil rights laws. Project 2025 goes further, advocating for the deletion of terms like DEI, abortion, and gender equality from all federal rules and regulations[3].The project also targets the civil service and the bureaucracy of the "Administrative State." It proposes a hiring freeze for federal civilian employees and suggests preventing "burrowing-in" by outgoing political appointees. This is part of a broader strategy to reduce the size of the federal workforce and bring independent agencies under White House control[4].Critics of Project 2025 argue that its recommendations are not only radical but also risky, potentially endangering democratic institutions and civil liberties. The initiative's approach to data collection, for example, involves consolidating the Bureau of Economic Analysis, Census Bureau, and Bureau of Labor Statistics, which could significantly impact the independence and reliability of economic data[5].The economic implications are equally concerning. Project 2025 proposes eliminating funding for key public transportation projects, such as the Capital Investment Grants (CIG) program, which has been crucial for awarding federal grants to local communities for infrastructure projects. This could make it harder for Americans without cars to commute and travel, affecting their ability to work and maintain social connections[5].Moreover, the project aims to restrict safety nets for farmers, limiting assistance to 'unusual situations' despite the common challenges farmers face due to unpredictable weather and market conditions. This could disproportionately impact low-income farmers who rely on these safety nets to survive economic downturns[5].As we look ahead, it is clear that Project 2025 represents a significant turning point in American governance. The initiative's comprehensive and far-reaching proposals have the potential to reshape numerous aspects of federal policy, from education and environmental regulation to civil service and economic development.Despite Trump's attempts to distance himself from the project, the connections between his policies and those of Project 2025 are undeniable. As Democrats continue to criticize the initiative, calling it a "plan to return America to a dark past," the debate surrounding Project 2025 is likely to intensify in the coming months[2].As the 2025 presidential transition approaches, the implementation of Project 2025's policies will depend on the outcome of the election and the willingness of the next administration to adopt these radical changes. Whether these proposals will become the blueprint for a new era in American governance remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the stakes are high, and the future of American policy hangs in the balance.

Weekend Edition: DOGE's Impact on the IRS, Budget Reconciliation & the Debt Limit, and the American Conservation Coalition

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 29, 2025 34:12

In this weekend's episode, three segments from this past week's Washington Journal. First, as tax season gets into high gear – a conversation with Nina Olson – who previously served as IRS Taxpayer Advocate. We discuss DOGE's impact on the functioning of the Internal Revenue Service - and the privacy of taxpayer data. Then, Shai Akabas of the Bipartisan Policy Center discusses the debt limit so-called "X-date" as Congressional Republicans begin their budget reconciliation process. Finally we talk with Benji Backer – founder of the American Conservation Coalition about his new push to make environmentalism NON-partisan. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

budget reconciliation doge weekend edition internal revenue service debt limit congressional republicans bipartisan policy center american conservation coalition washington journal benji backer nina olson

Save The Earth (From Bad Politicians) w/ US Congresswoman Harriet Hageman & Benji Backer – Ask Dr. Drew – Ep 463

Ask Dr. Drew

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 8, 2025 70:03

“Politicians, pseudo-experts, and other partisans have led us to believe that there are only two approaches to climate change: doomerism or denial,” writes Benji Backer – but he says both are dead ends. The activist joins US Congresswoman Harriet Hageman – chair of the Subcommittee on Water, Wildlife, and Fisheries – to discuss real climate solutions that Green New Deal supporters tend to ignore. Rep. Harriet Hageman is the U.S. Congresswoman from Wyoming and a litigator with 34 years of experience challenging federal overreach. She serves on the House Natural Resources Committee, chairing the Subcommittee on Water, Wildlife, and Fisheries, and the Judiciary Committee. She co-chairs the Congressional Coal Caucus. Hageman holds a B.A. and law degree from the University of Wyoming. More at https://x.com/RepHageman and https://hageman.house.gov Benji Backer is the Executive Chairman and Founder of the American Conservation Coalition and co-founder of Nature is Nonpartisan. He authored The Conservative Environmentalist (2024). A University of Washington graduate, he's been named to Forbes 30 Under 30 and Grist 50. Backer is a fellow at FREOPP and Arizona State University. Find more at https://x.com/benjibacker and https://benjibacker.com 「 SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS 」 Find out more about the brands that make this show possible and get special discounts on Dr. Drew's favorite products at https://drdrew.com/sponsors • FATTY15 – The future of essential fatty acids is here! Strengthen your cells against age-related breakdown with Fatty15. Get 15% off a 90-day Starter Kit Subscription at https://drdrew.com/fatty15 • PALEOVALLEY - "Paleovalley has a wide variety of extraordinary products that are both healthful and delicious,” says Dr. Drew. "I am a huge fan of this brand and know you'll love it too!” Get 15% off your first order at https://drdrew.com/paleovalley • THE WELLNESS COMPANY - Counteract harmful spike proteins with TWC's Signature Series Spike Support Formula containing nattokinase and selenium. Learn more about TWC's supplements at https://twc.health/drew 「 MEDICAL NOTE 」 Portions of this program may examine countervailing views on important medical issues. Always consult your physician before making any decisions about your health. 「 ABOUT THE SHOW 」 Ask Dr. Drew is produced by Kaleb Nation (https://kalebnation.com) and Susan Pinsky (https://twitter.com/firstladyoflove). This show is for entertainment and/or informational purposes only, and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"Unveiling Project 2025: A Sweeping Conservative Blueprint for Reshaping the Federal Government"

ceo donald trump politics energy research government foundation climate change climate conservatives global warming equal opportunity benji backer

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 1, 2025 7:21

As I delved into the intricacies of Project 2025, I couldn't help but feel a sense of both fascination and alarm. This sprawling initiative, spearheaded by the Heritage Foundation and crafted by a cadre of former Trump administration officials, lays out a vision for a radically reshaped federal government that is as ambitious as it is contentious.At its core, Project 2025 is a 900-page blueprint designed to guide the next conservative presidential administration, with a particular focus on the second term of Donald Trump. The project is built around four key pillars: a comprehensive policy guide, a database of potential personnel, a training program for these candidates, and a detailed playbook for the first 180 days in office[4].One of the most striking aspects of Project 2025 is its proposal to consolidate executive power and reshape the federal bureaucracy in the image of conservative ideology. The plan calls for the replacement of merit-based federal civil service workers with individuals loyal to Trump, effectively politicizing key government agencies such as the Department of Justice, the Department of Commerce, and the Federal Trade Commission. This move is part of a broader strategy to centralize control over the government, aligning with the unitary executive theory that advocates for greater presidential control over the executive branch[1].The implications of such a shift are profound. For instance, the Department of Justice, under Project 2025, would be thoroughly reformed to combat what the project terms "affirmative discrimination" or "anti-white racism," and would be tasked with prosecuting state and local governments, institutions of higher education, and private employers with diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs. Gene Hamilton, a former Trump DOJ official, argues that these programs "come at the expense of other Americans—and in nearly all cases violate longstanding federal law"[1].Education is another area where Project 2025 proposes sweeping changes. The plan envisions a significant reduction in the federal government's role in public education, advocating for the closure of the Department of Education and the transfer of education funding and policy to the states. This would include ending federal enforcement of civil rights in schools and allowing public funds to be used as school vouchers for private or religious schools. The National Center for Education Statistics would be merged with the Census Bureau, and programs like Title I of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965, which provides $18 billion in federal funds for schools in low-income areas, would be allowed to expire[1][3].The project's stance on education is encapsulated in its criticism of what it calls "woke propaganda" in public schools. It argues that federal overreach has led schools to prioritize "racial parity in school discipline indicators" over student safety. This perspective is reflected in the project's recommendation to end the Head Start program and cut funding for free school meals, with proponents like Roger Severino claiming that such programs do not provide value, though he has not provided evidence to support these claims[1].Environmental policy is another critical area where Project 2025's vision diverges sharply from current trends. The project advocates for the reversal of several key environmental regulations, including the 2009 EPA finding that carbon dioxide emissions are harmful to human health. It proposes preventing the EPA from regulating greenhouse gas emissions and blocking the expansion of the national electrical grid, thereby stymying the transition to renewable energy. Diana Furchtgott-Roth, the Heritage Foundation's energy and climate director, suggests that the EPA should support the consumption of more natural gas, despite concerns from climatologists about the increased leakage of methane, a potent greenhouse gas[1].These environmental proposals have been met with strong criticism from Republican climate advocates. Sarah E. Hunt, president of the Joseph Rainey Center for Public Policy, and U.S. Senator John Curtis have emphasized the importance of supporting good energy and climate policy, contrasting sharply with Project 2025's stance. Benji Backer, founder of the American Conservation Coalition, has noted a growing consensus among younger Republicans that human activity causes climate change, calling Project 2025's climate policy "wrongheaded"[1].The project's approach to law enforcement is equally contentious. It suggests that the Department of Justice has become a "bloated bureaucracy" infatuated with a "radical liberal agenda" and recommends that the DOJ be thoroughly reformed and closely overseen by the White House. The plan also proposes that the director of the FBI be personally accountable to the president, and that legal settlements between the DOJ and local police departments, known as consent decrees, be curtailed[1].In addition to these reforms, Project 2025 advocates for a more aggressive stance on immigration, recommending the arrest, detention, and mass deportation of illegal immigrants, as well as the deployment of the military for domestic law enforcement. It also proposes enacting laws supported by the Christian right, such as criminalizing the sending and receiving of abortion and birth control medications, and eliminating coverage of emergency contraception[1].Despite Trump's public disavowal of Project 2025, the initiative's proposals align closely with his past policies and current campaign promises. In a social media post, Trump claimed, "I know nothing about Project 2025. I have no idea who is behind it. I disagree with some of the things they're saying and some of the things they're saying are absolutely ridiculous and abysmal." However, a line-by-line review by CBS News identified at least 270 proposals in Project 2025 that match Trump's policies[4].The project's impact on American governance could be profound. By centralizing executive power, dismantling federal agencies, and implementing a wide range of conservative policies, Project 2025 aims to reshape the very fabric of the federal government. As Kevin Roberts of the Heritage Foundation put it, "The nation is in the process of the second American Revolution, which will remain bloodless if the left allows it to be." This rhetoric underscores the project's ambition and the potential for significant political and social upheaval[4].As we move forward, it is clear that Project 2025 will remain a contentious and influential force in American politics. With Trump's second term underway, many of the project's architects and supporters have been nominated to key positions in his administration. The coming months will be crucial in determining how many of these proposals are implemented and what their long-term effects will be on the country.In the words of the National Education Association, "The American public is united: The 900+ page blueprint for another Trump presidency... would be disastrous for the nation." Whether this prediction holds true remains to be seen, but one thing is certain – Project 2025 represents a seismic shift in the political landscape, one that will have far-reaching consequences for the future of American governance[3].

A Conservative Takes on Climate Change

The Brian Lehrer Show

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 18, 2025 22:03

Benji Backer, founder and CEO of Nature Is Nonpartisan and visiting fellow at The Foundation for Research on Equal Opportunity, offers his right of center take on how to combat climate change, and how he believes he can influence President Trump's energy secretary to be both pro-energy and pro-environment.

Transforming the Federal Government: Project 2025's Radical Restructuring Agenda

american health president donald trump education project office republicans transforming npr radical federal pbs dei corporations individuals bureau arctic epa disabilities doj elementary federal government human services cbs news american revolution heritage foundation restructuring federal trade commission environmental justice trumpism federal bureau census bureau labor statistics project 2025 american progress trump russia federal communications commission consumer financial protection bureau economic analysis national labor relations board environmental protection agency epa public broadcasting kevin roberts justice doj investigation fbi civil rights division trump doj despite trump american conservation coalition diana furchtgott roth benji backer secondary education act

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 16, 2025 6:52

As I delve into the intricacies of Project 2025, a sprawling initiative crafted by former Trump administration officials and the conservative think tank, The Heritage Foundation, it becomes clear that this is more than just a policy blueprint – it's a vision for a radical restructuring of the U.S. federal government.Project 2025 is encapsulated in a 900-page manual titled "Mandate For Leadership," which outlines a comprehensive plan to reorganize every federal agency to align with conservative principles. This project is not just about policy tweaks; it's about transforming the very fabric of American governance. The Heritage Foundation's President, Kevin Roberts, has described their role as "institutionalizing Trumpism," a notion that underscores the deep connections between this project and the former Trump administration[1][4][5].One of the most striking aspects of Project 2025 is its ambition to consolidate executive power. The initiative advocates for placing the entire executive branch under direct presidential control, eliminating the independence of agencies like the Department of Justice (DOJ), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). This centralization is rooted in a controversial interpretation of the unitary executive theory, which aims to give the president unprecedented control over the government. As Kevin Roberts put it, "all federal employees should answer to the president"[2][3].The project's impact on federal agencies is far-reaching. For instance, it proposes merging the Bureau of Economic Analysis, the Census Bureau, and the Bureau of Labor Statistics into a single entity, with a mission aligned with conservative principles. It also recommends abolishing the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), which is responsible for enforcing antitrust laws. The National Labor Relations Board, crucial for protecting employees' rights to organize, would see its role significantly diminished[2].In the realm of education, Project 2025 envisions a drastic reduction in the federal government's role. It suggests closing the Department of Education and transferring control over education funding and policy to the states. Federal enforcement of civil rights in schools would be curtailed, and programs like the Individuals with Disabilities' Education Act (IDEA) would be administered by the Department of Health and Human Services. The project also advocates for the expiration of Title I of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965, which provides $18 billion in federal funds for schools in low-income areas. Instead, public funds would be available as school vouchers, even for private or religious schools[2].The environment is another area where Project 2025's proposals are particularly contentious. The initiative seeks to downsize the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), close its Office of Environmental Justice and External Civil Rights, and reverse a 2009 EPA finding that carbon dioxide emissions are harmful to human health. This would prevent the federal government from regulating greenhouse gas emissions. The project also supports the expansion of fossil fuel use, including Arctic drilling, and advocates for preventing states from adopting stricter regulations on vehicular emissions. Diana Furchtgott-Roth, Heritage Foundation's energy and climate director, has suggested that the EPA should support the consumption of more natural gas, despite concerns about methane leaks[2].Project 2025's stance on climate change is starkly at odds with the views of many Republicans, including younger conservatives who acknowledge human activity's role in climate change. Benji Backer, founder of the American Conservation Coalition, has called the project's climate policies "wrongheaded," highlighting a growing consensus among younger Republicans that climate action is essential[2].The project's approach to law enforcement is equally transformative. It views the DOJ as a "bloated bureaucracy" that has "forfeited the trust" of the American people, particularly due to its role in investigating alleged Trump-Russia collusion. The DOJ's Civil Rights Division would be reformed to combat what the project terms "affirmative discrimination" or "anti-white racism," and would prosecute state and local governments, institutions of higher education, and private employers with diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs. This shift aligns with the views of former Trump DOJ official Gene Hamilton, who argues that advancing certain segments of society comes at the expense of others and violates federal law[2].In the media and communications sector, Project 2025 proposes significant changes. It suggests defunding the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, which funds PBS and NPR, and revoking NPR stations' noncommercial status. This could force NPR to relocate from its current FM dial range, making way for religious programming. The project also advocates for more media consolidation and proposes legislation to prevent social media companies from removing "core political viewpoints" from their platforms[2].The implications of these proposals are profound. If implemented, they would fundamentally alter the balance of power within the federal government, potentially undermining the system of checks and balances that is a cornerstone of American democracy. As the American Progress article notes, Project 2025 "would destroy the U.S. system of checks and balances and create an imperial presidency"[3].Despite Trump's public disavowal of Project 2025, the alignment between his policies and the project's proposals is striking. CBS News analysis has identified over 270 proposals in the project's blueprint that match Trump's past policies and current campaign promises. Paul Dans, the former director of Project 2025, has praised Trump's actions as "home runs" that reflect the initiative's efforts and the readiness of the conservative movement[4][5].As we look ahead, the fate of Project 2025 will likely be decided in the coming months and years. With its comprehensive and far-reaching proposals, this initiative represents a critical juncture in American governance. Whether it succeeds in reshaping the federal government or is met with significant resistance will depend on the political landscape and the will of the American people.In the words of Kevin Roberts, "the nation is in the process of the second American Revolution, which will remain bloodless if the left allows it to be." This statement encapsulates the project's ambition and the stakes involved. As we navigate this complex and contentious terrain, it is clear that Project 2025 is not just a policy initiative – it is a battle for the future of American democracy.

Trump Lays Waste to Climate Issues

Amanpour

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 28, 2025 60:59

"Drill, baby, drill" is not just a slogan that Donald Trump ran on, but a clear policy goal his first week in office. With a flurry of executive orders, his administration is trying to yank the US out of the Paris Climate Accords again, undo Biden-era green investment, and undermine efforts to pursue environmental justice. Benji Backer is a conservative environmental activist who believes that climate should be a non-partisan issue, and Lisa Friedman reports on climate policy and politics for the New York Times. They join the show to discuss what this all means for the climate and environment. Also on today's show: Nabih Bulos, Middle East Bureau Chief, The Los Angeles Times; Gabor Maté, Physician / Author, “The Myth of Normal” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

donald trump new york times joe biden myth climate waste los angeles times drill lays gabor mat paris climate accord benji backer middle east bureau chief

Transformative Vision or Dangerous Overreach? Exploring Project 2025's Ambitious Plans for American Governance

Zero Hour with James Poulos

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 18, 2025 6:13

As I delve into the intricacies of Project 2025, a sweeping initiative crafted by the Heritage Foundation, I am struck by the sheer breadth and ambition of its proposals. This project, unveiled in April 2023, is more than just a policy guide; it is a comprehensive blueprint for a radical overhaul of American governance, economic policies, and social structures.At its core, Project 2025 is the brainchild of over 400 scholars and policy experts from the conservative movement. It is led by figures such as Paul Dans, former chief of staff at the Office of Personnel Management, and Spencer Chretien, a former special assistant to President Trump. The project's advisory board includes more than 100 conservative groups, lending it significant weight within Republican circles[2][4].One of the most striking aspects of Project 2025 is its vision for the federal government's executive branch. The project advocates for a unitary executive theory, which centralizes greater control over the government in the White House. This means eliminating the independence of key agencies like the Department of Justice (DOJ), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). As Heritage Foundation President Kevin Roberts puts it, "The notion of independent federal agencies or federal employees who don't answer to the president violates the very foundation of our democratic republic"[1].This centralization of power extends to the Department of State, where Project 2025 proposes dismissing all leadership employees by January 20, 2025, and replacing them with "acting" roles that do not require Senate confirmation. Kiron Skinner, who authored the State Department chapter, believes most current employees are too left-wing and should be replaced by those more loyal to a conservative president[1].The project's economic and social policy proposals are equally far-reaching. It calls for significant tax cuts, though its authors are divided on the issue of protectionism. Medicare and Medicaid would face substantial cuts, and the government would be urged to explicitly reject abortion as healthcare. The plan also seeks to eliminate coverage of emergency contraception and to use the Comstock Act to prosecute those who send and receive contraceptives and abortion pills. Additionally, it proposes criminalizing pornography and removing legal protections against discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity[1].Environmental and climate policies are another critical area of focus. Project 2025 recommends repealing the Inflation Reduction Act, which allocated $370 billion for clean technology, and closing key offices at the Department of Energy focused on climate change mitigation. The plan supports Arctic drilling, blocks the expansion of the national electrical grid, and stymies the transition to renewable energy. Mandy Gunasekara, a contributor to the project, acknowledges climate change but considers it politicized and overstated. The report even suggests reversing a 2009 EPA finding that carbon dioxide emissions are harmful to human health, thereby preventing the federal government from regulating greenhouse gas emissions[1].The project's stance on climate change has been met with criticism from within the Republican party itself. Republican climate advocates like Sarah E. Hunt and John Curtis have expressed disagreement with Project 2025's climate policies, emphasizing the importance of supporting good energy and climate policy. Benji Backer of the American Conservation Coalition noted a growing consensus among younger Republicans that human activity causes climate change, calling the project "wrongheaded"[1].In the realm of science policy, Project 2025 prioritizes fundamental research over deployment, arguing that many current Department of Energy programs act as subsidies to the private sector. It proposes eliminating offices focused on energy technology development and climate change programs. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) would be subject to closer oversight by political appointees, and its research activities would require clear congressional authorization. The report also suggests capping indirect research costs for universities and directing more R&D funding towards small businesses[5].The implications of these proposals are profound. By centralizing executive power and dismantling independent agencies, Project 2025 challenges the traditional checks and balances of American governance. The elimination of key environmental and climate regulations could have long-term consequences for public health and the environment. The project's stance on social issues, such as abortion and LGBTQ+ rights, could lead to significant legal and social battles.As we look ahead, it is clear that Project 2025 will be a pivotal document in the upcoming political landscape. With its detailed blueprint for the first 180 days of a new Republican administration, it sets the stage for a potentially transformative period in American politics. Whether these proposals will be implemented in full remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: Project 2025 represents a bold and contentious vision for the future of American governance.As the country approaches the next presidential term, the debate over Project 2025's policies will only intensify. The project's authors and supporters see it as a necessary corrective to what they perceive as a bloated and inefficient federal government. Critics, however, view it as a dangerous erosion of democratic norms and a retreat from critical social and environmental responsibilities.Whatever the outcome, Project 2025 has already sparked a critical national conversation about the role of government, the balance of power, and the future of American society. As we navigate these uncharted waters, it is imperative to engage with the project's proposals thoughtfully, considering both their stated goals and the potential consequences of their implementation. The future of American governance hangs in the balance, and the choices made now will shape the country for generations to come.

Ep 80 | Is RFK Jr. Making Environmentalism a Conservative Issue? I Benji Backer

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 13, 2025 59:06

James Poulos and Benji Backer, an environmentalist and author of “ The Conservative Environmentalist,” discuss RFK's involvement with the Trump administration and how he is trying to change conservatives' minds on environmentalism. Poulos and Backer analyze how the U.S. government has been neglecting the well-being of our country, so much so that environmentalism needs to be paid attention to in the upcoming months, especially following the tragedy of the wildfires in California. Backer also shares his journey in becoming one of the biggest young conservative voices out there today and the process of writing his book. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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Episode 521 - Benji Backer || A Conservative Environmentalist?

Blood Origins

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 10, 2024 56:54

Benji Backer, author of ‘The Conservative Environmentalist' and founder of the American Conservation Coalition, joins Robbie to talk about his middle ground political approach to environmentalism - a mantra Blood Origins itself is deeply familiar with. Benji and Robbie have been trying to connect on a podcast for some time, first through Blood Origins' podcast producer Cody McLaughlin and then a second time through a common connection of Toby Lavigne. The two discuss Benji's bird hunting hobby, his big game ambitions, growing up with vegans, what it means to be a conservative environmentalist, and much more. It's a strong narrative discussion between two individuals that passionately believe in a middle ground to pushing a narrative of sustainability forward Do you have a questions we can answer? Send it via DM on IG or through email at info@bloodorigins.com Support our Conservation Club Members! Legacy Land Management: https://definemylegacy.com/ Rowesborg: https://www.instagram.com/rowesborg/ McGhee Insurance: https://www.mcgheeinsurance.com/ See more from Blood Origins: https://bit.ly/BloodOrigins_Subscribe Music: Migration by Ian Post (Winter Solstice), licensed through artlist.io This podcast is brought to you by Bushnell, who believes in providing the highest quality, most reliable & affordable outdoor products on the market. Your performance is their passion. https://www.bushnell.com This podcast is also brought to you by Silencer Central, who believes in making buying a silencer simple and they handle the paperwork for you. Shop the largest silencer dealer in the world. Get started today! https://www.silencercentral.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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‘We Laugh So We Don't Cry'

Jackson Unpacked

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 22, 2024 28:22

On this week's episode: Following the election, immigrant advocacy organizations say more deportations are looking likely and a slew of legal challenges could also get in the way. KHOL's Jenna McMurtry talks with Teton County Sheriff Matt Carr, Lincoln County Sheriff Matt Johnson and Jackson immigration lawyer Elisabeth Trefonas about that reality. It's been about a year since Teton County Search and Rescue was able to add a multi-million-dollar helicopter to the organization. KHOL's Dante Filpula Ankney reports a chopper is a rare addition to a volunteer search and rescue group in the West. For most, it's too expensive. The costly addition is helping Cody Lockhart, Steve Wilson and the entire TCSAR team with rescues in the county and in communities throughout the region. Also, nearly 30% of Teton County residents identify as Latino. KHOL's Rachel Stevens talked to KHOL DJ Valeria Abad about occasional isolation, being from a Latin country that isn't Mexico, but also, how being in-between cultures opens doors. And lastly, republicans often don't see tackling climate change as a top priority… but conservative environmentalist Benji Backer is trying to change that. The Mountain West News Bureau's Hanna Merzbach spoke with him, Jessica Burley and Andrew Mentzner in Jackson. Jackson Unpacked airs locally at 89.1 FM or via live-stream Mondays at 7:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m., and Fridays and Sundays at 12:30 p.m. Support Jackson's only nonprofit newsroom by becoming a member of KHOL today.

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Building Bridges to Unite a Divided America with Manu Meel, Ep.85

Forces for Nature

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 29, 2024 34:33

Send Crystal a text letting her know what you thought about the show!This is another episode of the Forces for Nature, EarthX Conference series!We're never going to create the healthy and humane world we want to see if we continue to be so divided from one another. Manu Meel is working to bring us together. He is the founder of BridgeUSA, an organization that empowers young people to foster constructive dialogue across political and ideological divides. With the United States feeling more polarized than ever, Manu shares how BridgeUSA is building spaces where real conversations can happen—ones focused on listening, understanding, and collaborating to find common ground. Discover the power of vulnerability in bridging divides, learn how to establish ground rules for productive dialogue, and understand the crucial difference between attacking arguments and attacking individuals. Whether you're feeling disheartened by today's political climate or looking for practical steps to promote understanding, this episode will leave you feeling hopeful and empowered to take action.HighlightsWith so much polarization today, what do you think is missing from our conversations, and how does BridgeUSA address this gap?What practical norms does BridgeUSA teach for fostering constructive conversations?What actionable steps can listeners take to help bridge divides in their own communities?What YOU Can DoBe Vulnerable: Share your own experiences and reasons for your beliefs—it invites others to do the same.Set Ground Rules: Before diving into challenging topics, agree on norms like listening to understand (not just to respond), avoiding interruptions, and focusing on ideas, not people.Seek Out Diverse Perspectives: Challenge your own biases by actively seeking out viewpoints different from your own to foster a broader understanding.Vote in Primaries: Recognize that fewer people vote in primaries, meaning a small vocal minority often decides the candidates. Get involved early to support nuanced, solutions-oriented candidates.Reject Outrage Culture: Be mindful of the media you consume and share—avoid sensationalist content that drives division.ResourcesBridge USA – Learn more about the organization and how to get involved.The Hopeful Majority Podcast – Manu's work that encourages nuanced discussions on social issues.Benji Backer's Book: "The Conservative Environmentalist – A fresh perspective on environmentalism from a conservative viewpoint.Media literacy resources - to help identify biased or inflammatory content.Want a free guide to help you become a force for nature? Get it HERE!If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe, rate, and review it! This helps to boost its visibility. Hit me up on Instagram and Facebook and let me know what actions you have been taking. Adopting just one habit can be a game-changer because imagine if a billion people also adopted that! What difference for the world are you going to make today?

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Building Consensus on Climate Change with Benji Backer

12 Geniuses Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 15, 2024 38:49

With extreme weather and deadly disasters dominating headlines, the issue of climate change is a vital issue in the 2024 election. The majority of Americans believe there is human-caused climate change affecting our lives and fear for future impacts. The issue raises a range of perspectives on how to tackle the problem among the candidates running for higher office. If the majority of us are united on this issue, how do we have better discourse to find productive solutions? In this interview, Benji Backer shares his experience building consensus among conservatives and liberals to make progress on climate change.In this conversation, Benji highlights some of the bipartisan climate legislation that has passed in the United States in recent history. He talks about how the American Conservation Coalition and other partners have led the way to help lawmakers prioritize the environment and climate issues. Benji goes on to discuss where climate change ranks in importance for voters, where people can get useful information about climate politics, and he even talks about how artificial intelligence anxiety is supplanting climate change as a political issue. Benji Backer is President and Founder of the American Conservation Coalition, the largest right-of-center environmental organization in the country. He has been awarded the Fortune 40 Under 40, Forbes 30 Under 30, GreenBiz 30 Under 30, and Grist 50 for his work with the ACC. He serves as a Board member for the Wisconsin Conservative Energy Forum and Mainstream Republicans of Washington. A frequent contributor to multiple national media outlets, Benji is one of the leading youth environmental voices in the country.

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E303. Nature Is Non-Partisan - Benji Backer

Walk-Ins Welcome w/ Bridget Phetasy

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 19, 2024 99:55

Benji Backer, author of The Conservative Environmentalist, sits down with Bridget to discuss how environmentalism became a partisan issue in America and what he's doing about it. They talk about the politicization of environmental issues, his road trip around the country in an electric vehicle, water scarcity and its solutions, the problem with data and AI centers, how every energy source has a massive tradeoff, the surprising fact that Texas is number one in solar and wind technologies, and why trying to mandate one type of of energy in an area where it won't work is not the solution, yet politicians keep trying it. They also cover bipartisan approaches to environmental solutions, realistic and cost-effective measures, nuclear energy, the homesteading and healthy eating trends, how nature belongs to everyone, trying to show peopel that people energetic choices can save you money, the role of government, and why the climate alarmists are worse that the climate deniers.Sponsor Links:- Check out Caliber the strength training & nutrition coaching program that's completely personalized to you. Get $100 off the first three months at caliberstrong.com/walkins- Quest offers 100+ lab tests to empower you to have more control over your health journey. Choose from a variety of test types that best suit your needs. Get 25% off today.- Check your media bias. Read the news from multiple perspectives. See through media bias with reliable news from local and international sources with Ground News. Click here and get 15% off.- If you love Walk-Ins Welcome become a supporter at phetasy.com This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.phetasy.com/subscribe

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Episode 742: The Conservative Environmentalist

Newt's World

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 21, 2024 36:56 Transcription Available

Many have led us to believe that there are only two approaches to climate change: doomerism or denial. In his new book, “The Conservative Environmentalist: Common Sense Solutions for a Sustainable Future,” Benji Backer offers a fresh approach needed to ensure a sustainable future, and particularly one that works for America. Newt's guest is Benji Backer. He is the President and Founder of the American Conservation Coalition, the largest right-of-center environmental organization in the country.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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Benji Backer is Redefining Environmentalism

Good Work with Barrett Brooks

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 13, 2024 112:41

Benji Backer is the Executive Chairman and Founder of the American Conservation Coalition (ACC), the largest right-of-center environmental organization in the country, and the author of The Conservative Environmentalist: Common Sense Solutions for a Sustainable Future. A proud graduate of the University of Washington, Benji has been awarded the Fortune 40 Under 40, Forbes 30 Under 30, GreenBiz 30 Under 30, and Grist 50. He serves as a board member of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences' Climate Change Commission, the Wisconsin Conservative Energy Forum, and BridgeUSA. A frequent contributor to national media outlets, Benji is one of the leading youth environmental voices in the country. This week, Barrett talks with Benji about his early start in political activism inspired by John McCain, the intense bullying he faced in high school, and his efforts to bridge bipartisan divides in environmental advocacy. Benji shares his experiences with burnout and the difficult decision to step down from his leadership role at the ACC while continuing his mission toward nonpartisan environmental solutions. They discuss the dangers of perceived expertise without real experience, the necessity of adapting policies over time, and the importance of building bipartisan coalitions. In this episode: (00:00) - Intro (04:17) - Burnout and stepping down as CEO (12:35) - Reflecting on leadership and personal growth (29:22) - The importance of bipartisan climate solutions (33:17) - Benji's brand of conservatism (40:24) - Bullying and opposition in school (56:55) - Bridging the political divide and finding solace in nature (01:04:38) - Building coalitions in politics (01:16:48) - Political sensationalism (01:21:35) - Understanding different perspectives (01:30:07) - Republicans and environmentalism (01:33:40) - Start local (01:40:28) - How to create change (01:46:51) - Making the environment nonpartisan (01:47:57) - Who Benji is becoming Get full show notes and links at https://GoodWorkShow.com. Watch the episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@barrettabrooks.

Why Bill Gates is Building Nuclear Power Plants | Benji Backer • 225

TRENDIFIER with Julian Dorey

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 10, 2024 176:30

(***TIMESTAMPS in description below) ~ Benji Backer is a conservative climate activist (yes, you read that right). Benji is the president and founder of the American Conservation Coalition, a bi-partisan environmental policy lobbying organization. BUY BENJI'S NEW BOOK: https://www.amazon.com/Conservative-Environmentalist-Common-Solutions-Sustainable-ebook/dp/B0CJ24CZW8 EPISODE LINKS - Julian Dorey PODCAST MERCH: https://juliandorey.myshopify.com/ - Support our Show on PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/JulianDorey - BUY Guest's Books & Films IN MY AMAZON STORE: https://amzn.to/3RPu952 BENJI LINKS - INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/benjibacker/?hl=en - WEBSITE: https://acc.eco/ LEAP BRANDS LINKS - WEBSITE: https://leapbrands.io/ - INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/leapbrands/ FOLLOW JULIAN DOREY INSTAGRAM (Podcast): https://www.instagram.com/juliandoreypodcast/ INSTAGRAM (Personal): https://www.instagram.com/julianddorey/ X: https://twitter.com/julianddorey JULIAN YT CHANNELS - SUBSCRIBE to Julian Dorey Clips YT: https://www.youtube.com/@juliandoreyclips - SUBSCRIBE to Julian Dorey Daily YT: https://www.youtube.com/@JulianDoreyDaily - SUBSCRIBE to Best of JDP: https://www.youtube.com/@bestofJDP Get $150 Off The Eight Sleep Pod Pro Mattress / Mattress Cover (USING CODE: “JULIANDOREY”): https://eight-sleep.ioym.net/trendifier ***TIMESTAMPS*** 0:00 - Benji working w/ Jared Kushner on Climate; Benji's very confused childhood 6:24 - Benji gets into Republican politics as a kid & then gets into climate somehow 10:19 - Al Gore's “An Inconvenient Truth”; Apocalyptic Cults; Celebrity hypocrisy & Virtue signalling 18:39 - Greta & AOC; Benji's organization & how it started 22:19 - Science of Climate Change; Wisconsin Winter Disasters 27:47 - The biggest Climate Change Threat Nobody talks about 31:37 - Climate Scientists, Politics, & The Industrial Revolution History; Fossil Fuels right now 38:06 - What does Carbon Footprint “mean?”; What's really happening w/ Glaciers & water levels 50:43 - NYC, Boston, & Miami Underwater?; How to RAISE Cities off water 1:00:53 - “Clean Coal” (lmao); Trump & Socioeconomic impact on coal miners; Nuclear Energy 1:06:56 - Bill Gates new Nuclear Project; Why Nuclear Energy is Climate Friendly 1:18:12 - Govs vs Corps; Blackrock 1:26:37 - Political pendulum extremism 1:28:41 - Greta Thunberg; Climate Distractions for Gov Actions 1:38:29 - Coastal vs. Rural Political Divide; Hating on farmers who feed us 1:43:39 - Julian's NYC Businesswoman Story; 1 Party System 1:49:59 - Politics' greatest crime; Phones & the divide; Technology evolving faster than humans 2:00:02 - Rural Americans' interaction w/ nature 2:03:13 - China, India & Russia don't care 2:08:58 - Regulations vs Free Market w/ Climate 2:15:15 - Benji's Jared Kushner Meeting 2:20:12 - Overpopulation vs Underpopulation 2:25:25 - AOC's Extinction Lady Prank Funny Video 2:32:33 - Why Alex Epstein is Wrong about fossil fuels 2:37:02 - The danger of Benji playing both sides; Slave to $$$ 2:42:51 - The Green New Deal 2:49:57 - California's new 2035 Electric Vehicle Law 2:55:16 - Benji's Next Project CREDITS: - Host, Producer, and Editor: Julian Dorey - In-Studio Producer: Alessi Allaman - https://www.instagram.com/allaman.docyou/ Julian Dorey Podcast Episode 225 - Benji Backer Music by Artlist.io

It's not easy being a green conservative

Today, Explained

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 20, 2024 25:00

Fighting climate change is not a very common Republican position. Climate activist Benji Backer argues it should be, and Climate Capitalism author Akshat Rathi explains how the free market could play a role. This episode was produced by Avishay Artsy, edited by Matt Collette, fact-checked by Laura Bullard, engineered by Andrea Kristinsdottir and Rob Byers, and hosted by Noel King. Transcript at vox.com/today-explained-podcast Support Today, Explained by becoming a Vox Member today: http://www.vox.com/members Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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Can Conservatives Believe In Climate Change?

Underreported Stories

Play Episode Listen Later May 17, 2024 34:51

The American right gets a TON right — no pun intended! But is there something about climate change that the right is getting wrong? Benji Backer, the founder of the nation's first conservative environmental group, questions whether the right is getting climate change RIGHT! Get Benji's book here: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/730880/the-conservative-environmentalist-by-benji-backer/ Watch the show on Rumble: https://rumble.com/c/ChrissyClark Support our sponsors: patriotmobile.com/chrissy underreportedstories.substack.com

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Rod Arquette Show: Dems Plan to Permanently Steal the Presidency; Should the GOP Lead the Fight vs. Climate Change?

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Play Episode Listen Later May 1, 2024 98:02 Transcription Available

Rod Arquette Show Daily Rundown – Tuesday, April 30, 20244:20 pm: Scott Hogenson, a contributor to Townhall joins Rod to discuss his piece about Joe Biden has already gone against his “Never Again” promise to fight antisemitism.4:38 pm: Terry Jones, Editor of Issues and Insights joins the program for a conversation about the Democrats' plan to steal the presidency for good.6:05 pm: Benji Backer, President of the American Conservative Coalition on his piece for The New York Times about how the Republican Party should be the one leading the fight against climate change.6:20 pm: USA Today columnist Ingrid Jacques joins Rod for a conversation about her piece on how Joe Biden's changes to Title IX will have devastating effects on women, the opposite of what the original law intended.6:38 pm: Madeline Osburn, Managing Editor of The Federalist, joins the program for a conversation about her piece on the cost-benefits of having a baby.

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Benji Backer - The Conservative Environmentalist

A Book with Legs

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 22, 2024 86:35

In this episode, activist Benji Backer joins Cole Smead to discuss his newly released book, "The Conservative Environmentalist," which makes the case for the economic benefits of the strategic merging of conservative values and environmental sustainability. Backer argues that environmentalism can align with American economic interests while offering a pragmatic approach to climate change.

Hour 3: Jelly Roll Launches New Music Studio in Nashville Prison

The Jason Rantz Show

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 20, 2024 47:00

What’s Trending: Thieves used a very sly tactic to steal from Seattle storage units. Secretary of State Antony Blinken is asked if he believes a major war will breakout in the Middle East. Country music star Jelly Roll is launching a music studio in a Nashville prison that he once spent time in. // LongForm: GUEST: Benji Backer (author of “The Conservative Environmentalist”) explains how progressive commandeered the environmental movement. // The Quick Hit: California has spent tens of billions on homelessness but they have no way to gauge whether it made any impact at all. The City of Portland has battled over a homelessness database for 8 years that’s completely useless.

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Speaker Johnson Reneges on Border Funding Promise

ToddCast Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 19, 2024 112:47

The House advanced a controversial foreign aid bill that provides billions of dollars in funding to Ukraine and Israel. Speaker Johnson needed Democrats to pass the bill. And it does not include any funding for the border.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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S8 E4: Benji Backer: The conservative environmentalist

The Free Mind Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 16, 2024 66:46

Benji Backer is the founder and Executive Chairman of the American Conservation Coalition (ACC), which is the nation's largest right-of-center environmental organization. He has been named to Forbes' and GreenBiz' 30 Under 30 lists, Fortune's 40 Under 40, and the Grist 50. He is also the author of the book The Conservative Environmentalist, which has received praise from voices across the political spectrum, including Van Jones and Dave Rubin. We discuss the book, the ACC, and what it means to be a conservative environmentalist.

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A Conservative Environmentalist?

Rick Wilson's The Enemies List

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 15, 2024 29:31

Conservatives in America are not typically known as lovers of environmental advocacy. Well, our guest bucks that trend. Benji Backer, an environmental advocate and author of "The Conservative Environmentalist" joins Rick to discuss the urgent need for practical and innovative solutions to environmental challenges, critiquing both extreme denial and radical approaches currently dividing the political landscape. Backer emphasizes a historical bipartisan approach to environmental issues and proposes a balanced pathway that leverages American ingenuity and respects local knowledge. Timestamps: [00:01:54] Green new deal vs. denial [00:19:09] Becoming a conservative environmentalist Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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Rod Arquette Show: The Reals Reasons Behind Utah's High Gas Prices

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Play Episode Listen Later Nov 21, 2022 102:00

Rod Arquette Show Daily Rundown – Friday, November 18, 20224:20 pm: Greg Todd, Director of the Utah Office of Energy Development and the Energy Advisor to Governor Spencer Cox joins Rod for a conversation about a recent study showing the reasons behind Utah's high gas prices4:38 pm: Kaylee McGhee White, Deputy Editor of the Restoring America series at the Washington Examiner and a Visiting Fellow at the Independent Women's Forum joins the program for a conversation about a Texas judge dealt the first blow against Joe Biden's attempts to rewrite Title IX6:05 pm: Tiffany Pocock, Project Manager at the Utah Department of Transportation, joins Rod to discuss a proposal to widen I-15 from North Salt Lake to Farmington6:20 pm: Benji Backer, President of the American Conservative Coalition, joins Rod for a conversation about why he says “just stopping oil” isn't a good climate plan because the world would lose 80?% of its power source6:38 pm: We'll listen back to Rod's conversations this week with American Political Philosopher Paul Gottfried about his piece in American Greatness about the national appeal of Ron DeSantis, and (at 6:50 pm) with E.J. Antoni of the Heritage Foundation on why inflation didn't play a bigger role with voters in the midterm elections

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Camila Thorndike, Climate Policy Campaigner

My Climate Journey

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 19, 2022 78:16

Today's guest is Camila Thorndike. Most recently, Camila managed Senator Bernie Sanders' portfolio on climate, energy, environment, territories, and tribes. The focus of her tenure was the Build Back Better Act passed in 2021 out of the Senate budget committee and House of Representatives. The majority of the bill's climate policies were retained in the subsequent Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) passed by the Senate in 2022. Camila is also co-founder of Our Climate, a youth advocacy nonprofit. Camila and Jason cover the IRA, what she's celebrating, where it missed the mark, and where we should go from here. They also talk about climate justice, energy poverty, the policy and regulatory landscape, and tons more. The conversation is a great follow-up to a previous episode with Benji Backer, who is very active in the conservative climate circle. Camila will be participating in an AMA in the MCJ Slack community and answering questions asynchronously for 24 hours starting Wednesday 21st September 21 at 8am PST / 11am EST / 4pm BST. Set your reminders, and get your questions ready!In today's episode, we cover: [8:18] Camila's background and how she got started in climate activism and policy[11:23] Her work with Senator Bernie Sanders [16:04] How Camila thinks about the problem of climate change and how it's evolved over time[22:17] Her views on the urgency of the problem [28:19] Greed and the fossil fuel industry [39:47] Financing access to clean energy and energy efficiency in developing countries [41:46] Ensuring a just transition away from fossil fuels[47:10] Potential phases of a rapid transition [49:58] Camila's thoughts on the Inflation Reduction Act[53:45] The lack of Republican support and level of polarization today [56:37] Her views on the two-party system [1:00:06] The role of individuals and actions we can take [1:04:27] Speed round including nuclear energy, billionaires, carbon offsets, carbon removal, and moreCorrection: Original green new deal plan was $16 trillion, not $10 trillion.Get connected: Cody's TwitterCamila's TwitterMCJ Podcast TwitterMCJ Collective Twitter*You can also reach us via email at info@mcjcollective.com, where we encourage you to share your feedback on episodes and suggestions for future topics or guests.Episode recorded on August 15, 2022.

What Do Young Voters Want In 2022?

The Takeaway

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 31, 2022 29:32

Since gaining the right to vote, 18-21 year olds have never turned out at the same rates as older citizens. Is it a matter of apathy? Access? Or both? In July, Senator Elizabeth Warren along with Representative Nikema Williams filed a bill called the “Youth Voting Rights Act,” in an effort to expand youth access to voting. The bill would allow 16 and 17-year-olds to pre-register to vote so that they're ready to vote on their 18th birthday, expand voter registration access at public universities and colleges, and require institutions of higher learning to have on-campus polling places. Recently youth voter turnout has actually increased. In 2018's midterms, we saw historic voter turnout rates among people aged 18-29, and in the 2020 Presidential elections, about half of 18 to 29 year olds voted, an 11% increase from 2016. We know that in 2020 Gen Z made up 10% of eligible voters in the U.S, and that they are more ethnically and racially diverse than previous generations. They're also on target to be the most educated generation yet. But as we approach the 2022 midterms, what do Gen Z and other young voters want? And how do they assess the state of our politics and democracy? We hear from young callers about what issues are motivating them in the 2022 elections. Then, we hear from 19-year-old Anya Dillard, activist and founder of The Next Gen Come Up, and 23-year-old Benji Backer, founder and president at American Conservation Coalition about how they see the state of voting and the health of our democracy.

What Do Young Voters Want In 2022?

The Takeaway

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 31, 2022 29:32

Since gaining the right to vote, 18-21 year olds have never turned out at the same rates as older citizens. Is it a matter of apathy? Access? Or both? In July, Senator Elizabeth Warren along with Representative Nikema Williams filed a bill called the “Youth Voting Rights Act,” in an effort to expand youth access to voting. The bill would allow 16 and 17-year-olds to pre-register to vote so that they're ready to vote on their 18th birthday, expand voter registration access at public universities and colleges, and require institutions of higher learning to have on-campus polling places. Recently youth voter turnout has actually increased. In 2018's midterms, we saw historic voter turnout rates among people aged 18-29, and in the 2020 Presidential elections, about half of 18 to 29 year olds voted, an 11% increase from 2016. We know that in 2020 Gen Z made up 10% of eligible voters in the U.S, and that they are more ethnically and racially diverse than previous generations. They're also on target to be the most educated generation yet. But as we approach the 2022 midterms, what do Gen Z and other young voters want? And how do they assess the state of our politics and democracy? We hear from young callers about what issues are motivating them in the 2022 elections. Then, we hear from 19-year-old Anya Dillard, activist and founder of The Next Gen Come Up, and 23-year-old Benji Backer, founder and president at American Conservation Coalition about how they see the state of voting and the health of our democracy.

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Benji Backer, American Conservation Coalition

My Climate Journey

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 8, 2022 70:35

Today's guest is Benji Backer, Founder and President of the American Conservation Coalition (ACC). ACC is focused on building grassroots environmental movement amongst the right-of-center space for climate action, with 150 chapters across the country. Benji is a passionate environmentalist and out to change the minds of people who think conservative and climate change advocate don't belong in the same sentence. In today's episode, we cover: An overview of the American Conservation Coalition and the work they doBenji's background and his passion for the environmentHis transition from conservative activist to climate activist How he reconciles his passions and conservative viewpointsThe two-party system and its shortcomings Increasing polarization in the US Who controls the narrative in Washington vs. who gets bills passedThe Build Back Better Bill The Republican party's shift away from conservation in the early 2000sIssues with the climate narrative leaving people outBenji's views on how to balance self-interest and taking action on climate solutionsThe role of government in addressing the climate crisis Consumer behavior changes The intersection between of climate change and environmental justice in cities and rural communities Benji's key priorities over the next 12-24 months ACC's Climate Commitment plan Who he wants to hear fromEnjoy the show!You can find me on Twitter @jjacobs22 (me), @mcjpod (podcast) or @mcjcollective (company). You can reach us via email at info@mcjcollective.com, where we encourage you to share your feedback on episodes and suggestions for future topics or guests.Episode recorded July 15, 2022.

Rod Arquette Show: What is the Dems Biggest Problem? It's Joe Biden

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 8, 2022 106:26

Rod Arquette Show Daily Rundown – Friday, August 5, 20224:20 pm: Brian Riedl, Senior Fellow at the Manhattan Institute joins the show for a conversation about how Democrats in Congress have both subsidized and taxed business in separate bills4:38 pm: PF Whalen of the Blue State Conservative joins the show for a conversation about his piece outlining the issues Republicans must make a priority if they hope to win in November6:05 pm: Brent Tanner, Executive Vice President of the Utah Cattlemen's Association, joins the show to discuss the state of the ranching industry in Utah given the drought and soaring operating costs6:20 pm: Sarah Westwood, an Investigative Reporter for the Washington Examiner, joins Rod to discuss whether states that have legalized the use of marijuana are experiencing rising crime6:38 pm: We'll listen back to Rod's conversations this week with Benji Backer of the American Conservative Coalition on the debate over the current heat wave in America – is it climate change or just the weather?6:50 pm: We'll air an encore of Rod's conversation with Dr. Ron Faucheux, Chief Analyst of Certus Insights, on how Democrats can solve their biggest problem – Joe Biden

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Rod Arquette Show: Congressman Chris Stewart Responds to United States Killing al Qaeda Leader

In Trump's Shadow: The Battle for 2024

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 2, 2022 92:26

Rod Arquette Show Daily Rundown – Monday, August 1, 20224:20 pm: Benji Backer, President of the American Conservative Coalition, joins the show to discuss his piece for the Deseret News asking how much we can blame current weather events on climate change4:38 pm: John Daniel Davidson, a Senior Correspondent with The Federalist, joins the show for a conversation about how the climate policies that are destroying private agriculture in the Netherlands are on their way to the United States6:05 pm: Congressman Chris Stewart joins the show to discuss his recent op-ed piece about how federal land (i.e.: National Parks) should have federally funded search and rescue teams6:20 pm: Daniel Cox, Director of the Survey Center on American Life and a Fellow at the American Enterprise Institute joins the show for a conversation about the results of a survey showing the Democratic Party has become less religious, more diverse and more liberal6:38 pm: Ramona Bessinger, a Teacher at the Providence Public School District in Rhode Island joins Rod to discuss how she blew the whistle on critical race theory in schools and has survived to continue working in her profession

The Republican Party and the Eco-Right

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 18, 2022 38:15

In a February Pew survey, Americans were asked to rank their priorities of 20 major issues for 2022 and climate change came in 14th. In the partisan divide the survey found only 11% of Republicans even thought it was a priority. (On the Democratic side it was 65%) Former President Donald Trump still holds considerable sway within his party and he pulled the United States out of the Paris Accords and has repeatedly referred to global warming as a Chinese hoax designed to make US industry non-competitive. Swimming against this tide is the American Conservation Coalition. Their mission statement includes, not just a commitment to the environment, but to capitalism. "Strong property rights, competitive markets, and trade, coupled with a culture of environmental stewardship, produce the best environmental outcomes." We recently sat down with the ACC's president, Benji Backer, to talk about the future of environmental politics on the center-right. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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A Bipartisan Solution To The Climate Crisis? With Benji Backer & Michelle Romero

Uncommon Ground with Van Jones

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 20, 2022 23:40

“I started to realize the political discourse nationally is not representative of the American people at all. It's what's best for TV or social media. It's good for a headline, but it's not good for actual people.”Two unlikely allies in the environmental movement – Michelle Romero, a liberal leader at Green For All, and Benji Backer, a consvervative leader at the American Conservation Coalition – prove that certain problems, like the climate crisis, are bigger than political parties. Join Van, Benji and Michelle on the ground at COP26, as they talk to each other–not about each other. It turns out there are a few smart ways to partner with the “other side” to address climate change.Uncommon Ground with Van Jones is nominated for a Webby award! Please vote for us HERE before the April 21st deadline! We appreciate your support. New episodes of Uncommon Ground with Van Jones release weekly, every Wednesday.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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Rantz Rewind - September 18, 2019

The Jason Rantz Show

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 12, 2022 37:07

What's Trending: Pasco women could be facing charges after lying in a viral post about child luring, a hiker was rescued after being stranded in the wilderness for two days with a broken leg, Benji Backer, the president & founder of American Conservation Coalition, testified in front of Congress today about climate change, and Tacoma passes a resolution on cease-fire. Corey Lewandowski talks and talks, and talks without saying anything, Jason Rantz goes on ‘Outnumbered' on FOX. Silicon Valley actor and Verizon spokesperson says swinging saved his marriage, See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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Rod Arquette Show: Young Voters Want Balance, Not Radical Change on Climate Policies

California Rebel Base with Steve Hilton

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 4, 2022 104:05

Rod Arquette Show Daily Rundown – Thursday, March 3, 20224:20 pm: Elle Reynolds, Assistant Editor at The Federalist, joins the show to discuss how the Democrats have quietly adopted covid policies previously pushed by the GOP and used media coverage of the Russian invasion of Ukraine to mask4:38 pm: Utah Senate President Stuart Adams joins the show for his weekly visit with Rod about the 2022 Utah Legislative session, and today they'll discuss what the Senate will be focusing on entering the last day of the session on Friday6:05 pm: Steve Moore, Chief Economist for the Heritage Foundation, joins Rod for their weekly conversation about politics and the nation's economy, and today they discuss the possibility of the Biden administration banning the use of Russian oil in the U.S.6:20 pm: Benji Backer, President of the American Conservative Coalition, joins Rod to discuss his op-ed piece for the Deseret News in which he says young Americans are looking for balance, and not for radical change on climate issues6:38 pm: University of Utah Law Professor Amos Guiora joins the show to discuss his recent paper on how legal and social forces enable the sexual abuse of children6:50 pm: Steve Milloy of the Heartland Institute, and founder of junkscience.com, joins the program to discuss the Supreme Court taking up the Obama administration's Clean Power Plan, and why now is not a good time for that plan to be implemented

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Benji Backer: GOP must own climate debate or risk losing hunters, other voters living in country's 'beautiful' heartland

John Solomon Reports

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 27, 2022 42:50

Benji Backer, President of American Conservation Coalition, discusses how conservatives need to “retake the conversation about climate change” and provide Americans with a reasonable and effective alternative to “terrible policies” like the Green New Deal. Backer says Conservatives and Republicans “know how to take care of our land.” “We're hunters, we're fishers, we love to hike, we love to bike, and we love to be outside, we love to farm, and that's part of who we are as people.” Commenting that “we're not at the top of a New York City Building, talking about how much we love the environment, we're actually in it, we're living it and breathing it every single day.”See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

FROM THE VAULT: Putting the Environment Back in Environmentalism, ft. Benji Backer

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 24, 2021 41:26

Conservative environmentalist, Benji Backer, joins us today for a fascinating discussion on why conservatives should embrace climate change realism and become the driving force behind market-based solutions that finally put the environment first.

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Mobilizing Young Conservatives Around Climate Change Action_Benji Backer_American Conservation Coalition

Climate Correction Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 16, 2021 27:55

President & Founder, American Conservation Coalition, Benji Backer, is a voice for young conservative who want real actionable climate change solutions. ACC is the largest grassroots organization for conservatives who care about the environment and want to have a community of people fighting for climate change. With chapters across the country, they provide people with the tools to be good advocates in their community regardless of their political affiliation. Benji shares that we start by taking small, reasonable, but tangible wins and continue scaling those wins up into larger policies. He notes that there are 3 areas we can focus on immediately where there is alignment on both sides of the political aisle, and discusses strategies for change. Wisconsin's Conservative Energy Forum Mainstream Republicans of Washington American Conservation Coalition Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change

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Rod Arquette Show: DOJ Gives Davis School District a Tongue Lashing For Ignoring Racism

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 25, 2021 102:37

Rod Arquette Show Daily Rundown – Friday, October 22, 20214:20 pm: Chris Williams, Director of Communications for the Davis School District, joins Rod to discuss the tongue lashing the district has received from the Justice Department for intentionally ignoring racial harassment of students4:38 pm: Kristen Soltis Anderson, a Political Columnist with the Washington Examiner, joins Rod for a conversation about how voters are now blaming Democrats for inflation in America6:05 pm: Sutherland Institute President Rick Larsen joins Rod to discuss his recent op-ed piece for the Deseret News in which he calls for complete transparency of what is being taught to our children in Utah classrooms6:20 pm: Benji Backer, President of the American Conservative Coalition, joins the show to discuss his piece for the Deseret News about how Americans lose when Congress lumps everything together into one package, like Democrats have done with the “social spending” bill6:35 pm: We'll listen back to Rod's conversations this week with Amie Parnes of The Hill about how Joe Biden is essentially steering clear of the media, and (at 6:50 pm) with Maureen Ferguson of The Catholic Association on her piece about how teenagers do no need smart phones

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Rod Arquette Show: Davis School District Bans LGBTQ and BLM Flags from Classrooms

California Rebel Base with Steve Hilton

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 22, 2021 105:11

Rod Arquette Show Daily Rundown –Tuesday, September 21, 20214:20 pm: Senator Mike Lee joins Rod for their weekly conversation, and today they'll discuss the debt limit, the crisis on the border with Haitian refugees, and defending the nation's Supreme Court4:38 pm:John Tamny, Editor of Real Clear Markets and Forbes joins Rod to discuss the covid hypocrisy that is running rampant in America5:05 pm: Davis School District spokesperson Chris Williams joins Rod to discuss why the district made the decision to ban any LGBTQ, Black Lives Matter, and even police support flags from the classrooms in its schools6:05 pm: Charles Lipson, Professor of International Politics at the University of Chicago, joins the show for a conversation about his piece in Real Clear Politics about how Biden's mistakes in Afghanistan won't soon be forgotten by the American people6:20 pm: Benji Backer, President of American Conservative Coalition, joins the show to discuss his piece for the Deseret News in which he makes a case for a conservative way of environmentalism6:35 pm: Author and journalist Robert Bryce joins the show to discuss how the push for renewable energy and mismanagement are degrading the nation's electric grid and it could soon mean we'll be dealing with blackouts6:50 pm: We will continue our series of suicide prevention interviews for the LIVE ON campaign with Teresa Willie, a Prevention Specialist with the Southwest Behavioral Health Center in Washington County, Utah

Ep. 22: Putting the Environment Back in Environmentalism

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 28, 2021 41:26

Conservative environmentalist, Benji Backer, joins us today for a fascinating discussion on why conservatives should embrace climate change realism and become the driving force behind market-based solutions that finally put the environment first.

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Benji Backer: How to DEFEAT the Green New Deal (And ACTUALLY Solve Climate Change)

Breaking Boundaries with Brad Polumbo

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 3, 2021 32:45

Benji Backer, founder of the American Conservation Coalition, explains how to DEFEAT the Green New Deal and the Left's big-government "change change" agenda. Benji explains that doing so will require conservative realism about the reality of the problem, and sensible, center-right policy approaches to nuclear power, carbon capture, and more. Plus, we break down the changing GOP politics on environmentalism and the emerging generational divide. Then, Benji's food take on what food he eats with ice cream with surprise (and possibly disgust) you. Follow Benji on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BenjiBacker Follow ACC on Twitter: https://twitter.com/ACC_National Follow Brad on Twitter: https://twitter.com/brad_polumbo Follow Brad on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bradpolumbo/

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E19: E19: Benji Backer's new brand of conservative ecoactivism could help save the planet

Right Now with Stephen Kent

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 30, 2021 47:27

There are plenty of conservatives who want to fight climate change. But how can Republicans create environmental policies that resonate with red state voters? On a new episode of "Right Now with Stephen Kent," Stephen sits down with Benji Backer, the founder and president of the American Conservation Coalition, for a conversation about why today's environmental messaging fails to resonate with conservative Americans living in rural areas, the pros and cons of the environmental policies in the Biden infrastructure plan, why severe weather events are not the same thing as climate change, why and when conservatives started caring more about the environment, and the technology and innovations that we need to combat global warming. Subscribe to Rightly and check out additional info about their conversation below. Subscribe to Rightly and check out additional info about their conversation below. ---- Content of This Episode ----00:00 Episode start00:05 Hot time, summer in the city03:00 Welcome Benji Backer04:23 Weather is not climate change, and vice versa06:36 Conservatives changing their tune – adagio08:30 Benji’s life-long activism10:02 Environmental conservatism lives in the West12:17 Getting the messaging right17:40 The language of self-interest23:04 Conservative Climate Caucus v Roosevelt Caucus28:00 My little steps don’t matter, or do they?32:26 The Sunrise Movement March35:30 Getting ag on board37:05 Good foundations for climate policy39:00 The innovations we need now42:34 Goals for 2021 and beyond43:45 Good news on jobs, the Bucks and meat ---- Reading List ---- A lesson from Biden’s plan: If everything is infrastructure, nothing is (Benji Backer for Deseret News)https://www.deseret.com/opinion/2021/4/19/22387900/biden-infrastructure-plan-two-trillion-dollars-american-jobs-plan-benji-backer-acc Manassas schools’ proposed anti-racism policy an excuse to explain classroom challenges (Potomac Local News)https://potomaclocal.com/2021/06/26/manassas-schools-proposed-equity-policy-is-wrong/U.S. climate ads by conservatives, for conservatives, shift views (David Sherfinski for Reuters)https://news.trust.org/item/20210630113113-dvenbToward a Conservative Environmentalism (Nate Hochman for National Review)https://www.nationalreview.com/magazine/2020/09/21/toward-a-conservative-environmentalism/#slide-1Active Forest Management Will Reverse the Trend of Intensifying Wildfires (American Conservation Coalition)https://www.acc.eco/blog/2018/8/16/active-forest-management-will-reverse-the-trend-of-intensifying-wildfiresU.S. conservatives stake claim to climate activism with Miami rally (Timothy Gardner for Reuters)https://www.reuters.com/article/usa-climate-conservatives-rally/u-s-conservatives-stake-claim-to-climate-activism-with-miami-rally-idINL2N2NK2Z31 big thing: Biden's ticking climate clock (Mike Allen for Axios)https://www.axios.com/newsletters/axios-deep-dives-e38f6cc4-51d9-4605-8e5f-cbe55a9d63c6.html'This photo captures how we feel': Photo of firefighter in Big Sur's Willow Fire goes viral (Amy Graff for SFGATE)https://www.sfgate.com/california-wildfires/article/firefighter-hotshot-Justin-Grunewald-Willow-Fire-16274671.php---- Plugs for our guest ---- Follow Benji Backer on Twitter:https://twitter.com/BenjiBackerLearn more about the American Conservation Coalition:Twitter: https://twitter.com/ACC_NationalWebsite: https://www.acc.eco/membership

On Conservation with Environmentalist Benji Backer

On Pursuing

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 23, 2021 42:45

From fire, to coal to solar power, the truth is that over millennia, centuries, recent years, we have discovered new means to provide energy and convenience to our lives. These discoveries have enabled society to live longer, become more efficient and travel to see other parts of the world. All of that goodness has come at a cost. A cost that we all have to reckon with and address. Climate change is a challenging problem that impacts, well… our whole planet. Challenging problems often require complex solutions. There are many layers to this problem. Our current energy dependence. The families and communities that currently support the energy sector. The extraction of elements to provide various forms of energy and the disposal of those products. There is no straight line solution. It takes great humility to solve problems. To rise above our own cognitive bias and realize, “While I may be an expert, while I may have a lot of experience, I actually don't have all the answers” Collaboration becomes important. And when you're dealing with real people, their livelihoods, detriment to their communities, empathy and compassion becomes an important element in this type of problem solving. Innovation got us to where we are today, I tend to believe that innovation will be how we design and build our more environmentally responsible future. We can all play a role, by producing less waste and demanding less of our environment to meet our needs. But not all of us are on the front line of this all important issue. Thankfully for all of us, there are a lot of smart people with great interest, enthusiasm and intelligence capable of solving these problems. Benji is one of them. I'm excited to share his voice with you today. Show Notes & Links: On Pursuing - On Conservation - Episode 6 Social Media for Benji and ACC Instagram American Conservation Coalition Website If you'd like to connect with Ivey and continue the conversation, please feel free to connect on social media.

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Episode 16: Conservatism and Climate Action

Climate Fix Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 8, 2021 59:57

D.J. and Phil talk to Benji Backer, president and founder of the American Conservation Coalition, a conservative environmental advocacy organization that takes a firm pro-nuclear stance. In this episode, we discuss the conservative case for protecting the environment, the reality of climate change, climate politics and policy, and how young people are pushing for bipartisan climate mitigation efforts. Created by: Americans for Nuclear Energy Inc. Recorded: 5/4/2021 --- American Conservation Coalition website: https://www.acc.eco/ The Conservation Coalition website: https://tcc.eco/ Benji Backer on Twitter: twitter.com/BenjiBacker Benji testimony to Congress alongside Greta Thunberg: https://youtu.be/icKlNgLuqzU

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The Strength of Gen Z & Millenial Voices with Danielle Butcher & Benji Backer

Today is the Future

Play Episode Listen Later May 17, 2021 40:58

Danielle and Benji the CoFounders of the American Conservation Coalition. This nonprofit is dedicated to "mobilizing young people around environmental action. Their actions within the environmental movement have been noted on Forbes 30 Under 30, New York Times, CNN, and many more media outlets. In this episode we chat about:-The power of young voices-Effective leadership-The ultimate mission behind the ACC-Political unity More about the American Conservation Coalition at:Website: www.acc.ecoInstagram: @acc_national @daniellesbutcher @benjibackerTwitter: @acc_nationalMore about the host, Livi Redden, at:Would love it if you left a podcast review: click hereInstagram: @liviredden @todayisthefuturepodcastTikTok: @liviredden

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Hour 2 - A Seattle business refuses to serve SPD officers

The Jason Rantz Show

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 30, 2021 38:24

What's Trending: A Seattle business refuses to serve SPD officers, Seattle lawyer Daniel Sheed refers to Tim Scott as “Django Unchained”, and Nancy Pelosi thinks George Floyd was assassinated and lynched. Big Local: Unusual COVID testing sites surface in Snohomish County, and Whatcom county looks like they are headed backward. Benji Backer (president of American Conservation Coalition) on Biden's bad climate change pitch and what conservatives are offering See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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Rod Arquette Show: How to Mend America's Political Divide

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Play Episode Listen Later Apr 27, 2021 106:01

Rod Arquette Show Daily Rundown – Monday, April 26, 20214:20 pm: Benji Backer, Founder and President of the American Conservation Coalition, joins the program to discuss his op-ed for the Deseret News about how Joe Biden’s infrastructure plan doesn’t target specific needs4:35 pm: Scott Miller, former chair of the Salt Lake County Republican Party, joins Rod to discuss why he has decided to rescind his apology for the bullying that some female candidates from the party say they experienced at the hands of the party’s former communications director6:05 pm: Overstock.com CEO Jonathan Johnson joins the show to discuss his recent Deseret News op-ed in which he says healing America’s political divide begins with civics6:20 pm: Michael Hammond, Legislative Counsel for Gun Owners of America, joins Rod to discuss the decision by the Supreme Court to consider whether the constitution protects the rights of Americans to carry guns in public6:35 pm: John Hinderaker of Powerline joins the show to discuss why he says solar and wind energies are bound for failure, mostly because of land-use restraints

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Climate Truth: Climate Change Alarmism and Reality, with Michael Shellenberger and Benji Backer | Ep. 94

The Megyn Kelly Show

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 26, 2021 96:29

Megyn Kelly is joined by Michael Shellenberger, author of "Apocalypse Never," and Benji Backer, founder of the American Conservation Coalition, to talk about climate change truth, and separate alarmism from reality. They discuss what's really happening with global warming, the rise of climate alarmism in politics and the media, what happens if the oceans rise as feared, the way being "green" has become a status symbol, the truth about recycling plastics, nuclear power vs. other forms of "green" energy, Bill Gates' idea to "dim the sun," how conservatives can take the lead on the climate, and more. Follow The Megyn Kelly Show on all social platforms: Twitter: http://Twitter.com/MegynKellyShow Instagram: http://Instagram.com/MegynKellyShow Facebook: http://Facebook.com/MegynKellyShow Find out more information at: https://www.devilmaycaremedia.com/megynkellyshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Climate Truth: Climate Change Alarmism and Reality, with Michael Shellenberger and Benji Backer | Ep. 94

The Megyn Kelly Show

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 26, 2021 93:14

Megyn Kelly is joined by Michael Shellenberger, author of "Apocalypse Never," and Benji Backer, founder of the American Conservation Coalition, to talk about climate change truth, and separate alarmism from reality. They discuss what's really happening with global warming, the rise of climate alarmism in politics and the media, what happens if the oceans rise as feared, the way being "green" has become a status symbol, the truth about recycling plastics, nuclear power vs. other forms of "green" energy, Bill Gates' idea to "dim the sun," how conservatives can take the lead on the climate, and more.Follow The Megyn Kelly Show on all social platforms:Twitter: http://Twitter.com/MegynKellyShowInstagram: http://Instagram.com/MegynKellyShowFacebook: http://Facebook.com/MegynKellyShowFind out more information at:https://www.devilmaycaremedia.com/megynkellyshow

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A Green New Deal Warning: Bjorn Lomborg, Alex Epstein, Benji Backer | ROUNDTABLE

The Rubin Report

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 23, 2021 33:09

Dave Rubin of The Rubin Report talks to Bjorn Lomborg, Alex Epstein, and Benji Backer about the Green New Deal. They discuss why it is poorly designed environmental policy and won’t deliver on the promise of green jobs. The green economy is another utopia being pushed by Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Senator Ed Markey, and progressive Democrats that won’t solve climate change. Instead, our guests argue that various plans to replace fossil fuels with inefficient and expensive renewable energy could actually make life worse for the poorest among us. They will also discuss how unrelated issues like racial justice have been packaged into climate policy and the importance of separating politics from science. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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Daily Signal Podcast: How Conservatives Can Reclaim Narrative on Environment

The Ricochet Audio Network Superfeed

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 12, 2021

“Conservative ideals are the best way to solve environmental issues,” says Benji Backer, founder of the right-leaning environmental advocacy group American Conservation Coalition. Backer joins “The Daily Signal Podcast” to discuss how conservatives can take back the environmental conversation and advocate small-government solutions to climate issues. Follow the links below to learn more about the […]

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How Conservatives Can Reclaim Narrative on Environment

Daily Signal News

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 12, 2021 26:51

“Conservative ideals are the best way to solve environmental issues,” says Benji Backer, founder of the right-leaning environmental advocacy group American Conservation Coalition.Backer joins "The Daily Signal Podcast" to discuss how conservatives can take back the environmental conversation and advocate small-government solutions to climate issues. Follow the links below to learn more about the American Conservation Coalition: ACC Membership: www.acc.eco/membershipACC Market Environmentalism Academy: www.marketacademy.ecoTwitter: @ACC_NationalInstagram: acc_nationalFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/AmericanConservationCoalitionAlso on today’s show, we read your letters to the editor and share a “good news story” about one way you can honor a Korean War veteran on his 93rd birthday.Click here to learn how you can send a letter to Korean War Veteran Thomas Bryan Crouch on his 93rd birthday. Enjoy the show! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

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04 07 21 Alma Katsu Benji Backer Mark Singleton

The Ross Kaminsky Show

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 7, 2021 128:23

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Gen Z and Advocacy: Benji Backer, President and Founder of the American Conservation Coalition

The Town Haul

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 19, 2021 35:53

Although he doesn't have his own Tik Tok account, the ACC's Benji Backer is quintessential Gen Z. He's young, he's passionate, and he works tirelessly to make a positive change for our planet. Benji and his team are leading a grassroots effort on eco-conscious education across college campuses and the halls of government. Host Amy Koonin Taylor sits down with Backer to talk about all things climate change, building the bipartisan bridge, and his love for Aaron Rodgers.

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Benji Backer (American Conservative Coalition) and Mitch Hescox (Evangelical Environment Network)

Energy Matters with Commissioner Echols

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 16, 2021 52:00

In this episode, Commissioner Tim Echols and KC Boyce talk with American Conservation Coalition founder, Benji Backer, about his organization and his electric vehicle drive across America. In the final segment, Rev. Mitch Hescox discusses the creation care movement.

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Benji Backer: Environmental Science in the Classroom

Teacher's Lounge

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 19, 2021 23:45

Benji Backer joins the Chalkboard Review to discuss Environmental Science in the classroom, what the future of ecology curriculum looks like, and what got Tony & Benji into Environmental Science.

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How Much Does the President Matter for the Climate?

How to Save a Planet

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 5, 2020 48:26

When it comes to climate change, it can feel like our future hangs in the balance of this presidential election in the U.S. But how much does the president really matter? And how can climate action move forward regardless of who wins? This week, Alex and Ayana talk with Abigail Dillen of Earthjustice about fighting for climate in the courts. Then, we speak with Benji Backer of the American Conservation Coalition about changing the climate conversation among conservatives. Call to action: Make sure all the votes are counted! Help safeguard the democratic process by signing up for updates from a new coalition called Protect the Results. Sign up for our newsletter!

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Sec Pompeo's Visit, Sen Roger Roth & Joanne Williams

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Play Episode Listen Later Sep 28, 2020 101:46

(00:00) Local News Chat: Appleton Parking & Bears QB (11:30) Benji Backer on TCC's Electric Election Roadtrip (19:30) Your Take on Secretary of State Pompeo's Visit (39:30) Sen Roger Roth on Pompeo & Election Security (61:00) Joanne Williams on Race, Politics & the Media (93:00) The Takeaway: Preparing For Action & Reaction

The Electric Election 2020 Roadtrip w/ Benji Backer of The Conservation Coalition

Reversing Climate Change

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 21, 2020 16:26

Reversing Climate Change alumnus and founder and president of the American Conservation Coalition, Benji Backer, returns to the show to tell us about The Conservation Coalition's new multimedia project, The Electric Election Roadtrip 2020. Benji and his team are traveling the country in a Tesla X to investigate the multiple overlapping climate solutions being developed. You can follow the show and its video on Facebook, TCC's website, or the podcast via audio in your podcast app of choice. Resources: The Electric Election 2020 Roadtrip website American Conservation Coalition's Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTube, website The Conservation Coalition website, and Twitter Benji Backer's Twitter The Trump panel with scientists referenced in this episode --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/reversingclimatechange/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/reversingclimatechange/support

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Electric Election Roadtrip EP 02: Ana Mari Cauce & Lucas Joppa

Electric Election Roadtrip Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 19, 2020 53:30

Join host Benji Backer, President and founder of the Conservation Coalition, and Executive Producer of the Electric Election podcast, Saul Spady, as they start their cross country journey in Western Washington. Today, we're highlighting the importance of public-private partnerships in tackling climate change. We're joined by President of the University of Washington Ana Mari Cauce and Microsoft's Chief Environmental Officer, Lucas Joppa. Expect to gain insight into UW's School of Oceanography climate research, Microsoft's mindset in investing in climate action, and much more! This is episode 2 of 30 on our 45 day odyssey to bring you local stories about the many environmental solutions taking place across the country in the lead up to Election Day. Still reading this far? Sweet. Tweet us or comment below with an ocean animal emoji using #ElectricElection to let us know you made it to the starfish research. (P.S. What do you think about that? Wild, right?)

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What Conservative Climate Activists Want

Political Climate

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 17, 2020 53:35

The youth climate movement has gained enormous momentum over the past few years. While progressive groups tend to be the most well known, conservative youth activists are also expanding their presence in American politics. The Republican Party stands to lose an entire generation of voters if it doesn’t embrace a more environmentally friendly agenda. We speak to Benji Backer, executive director of the American Conservation Coalition, about what he thinks Republicans are getting right and wrong on climate heading into the 2020 election. Benji and a group of college-aged friends created The American Conservation Coalition in 2017 with a dream of making environmental issues nonpartisan again. The Republican-leaning group says it’s dedicated to mobilizing young people around climate action and environmental protection through common-sense, market-based and limited-government ideals — even if that means criticizing members of their own party. We talk to Benji about what young conservative climate activists want and debate Republicans’ existing track record on climate action.Recommended reading:Electric Election 2020 Road TripConservative climate group runs pro-environment ads on Fox NewsWaPo: In rare bipartisan climate agreement, senators forge plan to slash use of potent greenhouse gasThe Atlantic: How a Plan to Save the Power System DisappearedPolitical Climate is produced in partnership with the USC Schwarzenegger Institute. Listen and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, Google Play or wherever you get podcasts!This episode is brought to you with support from Lyft. Lyft is leading the transition to zero emissions vehicles with a commitment to achieve 100% electric vehicles on the Lyft platform by 2030. Learn more at lyftimpact.com/electric.

Amanpour: Jeh Johnson, Benji Backer, Josina Machel and Mia Love

Amanpour

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 27, 2020 55:31

With the shooting of Jacob Blake and the increasing tensions in Kenosha, Wisconsin, Jeh Johnson, former Homeland Security Secretary, joins Christiane Amanpour to discuss the latest developments in the fight for racial justice playing out on America’s streets. He says the White House risks antagonizing protesters further by politicizing the government response. Turning to climate, Benji Backer, the American Conservation Coalition President, explains why the Republican National Convention ignoring the urgent climate crisis is an immense failure. Then we speak with Josina Machel, daughter of Graca Machel and step-daughter of the late Nelson Mandela, about the brutal domestic assault that left her blind in one eye. She reflects on the surges in gender-based violence in South Africa during lockdown, already one of the most dangerous places in the world to be a woman. And lastly, our Michel Martin talks to the former U.S. House Republican Mia Love about the highs and lows of Trump’s controversial presidency. To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy

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Quick Take: What's Your Backup Plan?

The Michael Steele Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 20, 2020 11:57

Michael and guest Benji Backer talk about a conservative approach to climate change.

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I Appreciate Your B$tching: With Guest Benji Backer

The Michael Steele Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 10, 2020 57:38

Michael talks with guest Benji Backer about why environmentalism is a conservative issue. Then, the value of youth engagement in politics and the frequent failure of young people to follow through on their activism with actual votes.

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Conservative Solutions For The Environment

Actual Conversations

Play Episode Listen Later May 29, 2020 41:39

I speak with Karly Matthews, representative of The American Conservation Coalition (ACC), on the issue of climate change from the conservative perspective - an issue that I find hasn't been properly explored or addressed on the political right until recently. -For more resources, more information, and ways to get involved check out their website: https://www.acc.eco/ -Watch this interview with ACC founder Benji Backer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V_p_6qLcpnw -Follow the ACC on twitter @ACC_National

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Episode 81: Conservative Climate Solutions with Benji Backer

The Urbane Cowboys Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 27, 2020 36:50

Benji Backer of American Conservation Coalition joins us to talk about conservative approaches to environmental policy and climate change. Hosted by Josiah Neeley of R Street. Produced by Braden McCullough.

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Betraying an Oath, Benji Backer & the Trade War

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Play Episode Listen Later Dec 19, 2019 100:18

(00:00) Local News Chat: School Spending & Voter Purge (19:55) Your Take on Law Enforcement Betraying Our Trust (38:32) Benji Backer on Inclusive Environmental Action (60:35) Checking-In on Trade Deals & the Trade War (91:30) The Takeaway: Anticipating What Doesn't Come

Ep. 394 - Red Flags All Around

The Michael Knowles Show

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 7, 2019 47:53

In the wake of two mass shootings that would not have been prevented by any of the gun control legislation proposed in recent years, Republicans and Democrats are coming together to endorse more gun control legislation that will not stop any future shootings. Then, conservative environmentalist Benji Backer stops by to try to turn me green! Date: 08-07-2019

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74: A Conservative Approach to Climate Solutions—with Benji Backer

Reversing Climate Change

Play Episode Listen Later May 14, 2019 45:11

In our polarized political climate, we are led to believe that ALL conservatives are irrational climate deniers, and ALL liberals are dead set on a large-scale policy solution that will shut down the American economy. But if you turn off the TV and close your social media tabs, you might discover that Democrats and Republicans actually agree on a lot more than we think. So, how do we get both parties to the table to talk about climate solutions? What is the best approach for getting right-of-center thinkers to engage in the discussion? How can we leverage the best of conservative principles to design a solution in which the markets and policy work hand in hand? Benji Backer is the President of the American Conservation Coalition, a nonprofit dedicated to educating and empowering conservatives to engage in environmental conversations and promote free-market and pro-business environmental solutions. Benji speaks at events across the country, and his work has appeared on CNBC, The Hill, and Townhall, among many other media outlets. Currently a junior at the University of Washington, Benji was named one of RedAlert’s Top 30 Under 30 conservatives in 2015. Today, Benji joins Ross, Christophe, and Paul to share his definition of what environmentalism should be, in contrast to what the term has come to represent. He discusses the principles of conservatism and offers insight on getting conservatives involved in the conversation around climate change. Listen in for Benji’s free-market approach to developing climate solutions and learn how liberals and conservatives can find common ground when it comes to reversing climate change. Resources American Conservation Coalition ACC on Twitter Benji on Twitter ‘Believing in Climate Change, But Not Behaving Sustainably: Evidence from a One-Year Longitudinal Study’ in the Journal of Environmental Psychology Todd Myers on RCC EP052 Trey Hill on RCC EP059 The Paris Agreement Green New Deal Benji on the Van Jones Show Young America’s Foundation Edmund Burke Robert Nisbet SMBC comic William Buckley Michael Oakeshott David Hume Arthur Brooks Love Your Enemies: How Decent People Can Save America from the Culture of Contempt by Arthur C. Brooks Congressman Mike Gallagher The Righteous Mind: Why Good People Are Divided by Politics and Religion by Jonathan Haidt This Changes Everything by Naomi Klein The Nature Conservancy National Audubon Society Sierra Club World Wildlife Fund Ken Burns Bryan Caplan Van Jones Carbon Removal Newsroom Review RCC on iTunes Connect with Ross & Christophe Nori Nori on Facebook Nori on Twitter Nori on Medium Nori on YouTube Nori on GitHub Email hello@nori.com Nori White Paper Subscribe on iTunes Key Takeaways [1:13] Benji’s path to reversing climate change Active in conservative politics since age 10 President of American Conservation Coalition [3:23] The need for rural voices in environmental policy decisions Urban voice motives good but knowledge lacking Live in nature, know importance of protecting environment [5:24] Benji’s definition of what environmentalism SHOULD be Care about + want to protect environment Doesn’t mean support massive reform packages [7:34] The principles of conservatism Limited government, common sense solutions Balance local, state and national decisions [11:26] Contemporary conservative voices worth listening to Arthur Brooks Congressman Mike Gallagher [18:38] How to get conservatives involved in the climate conversation Role of capitalism, markets in climate solutions Innovation to reduce emissions [22:21] The free market approach to reversing climate change Carbon capture and storage Growth of clean energy Markets + policy work hand in hand [26:28] Benji’s insight on convincing conservatives re: climate change Focus on national security, jobs and military Pride in leading world + doing things first [31:18] The failure of Washington state’s revenue-neutral carbon tax Liberals didn’t like where money went, conservative support ‘What is this really about then?’ [34:30] How to find common ground between liberals and conservatives Start with non-climate issues (i.e.: National Park backlog, endangered species) Focus on shared goals of clean air, water + protect future generations [38:16] Why it’s crucial to understand the opposition’s argument Better understand way others look at life Get things done, even if don’t agree

April 30, 2019

Seattle's Morning News with Dave Ross

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 30, 2019 46:05

Chris Sullivan's Chokepoint -- 2019 WA transportation budget // Aaron Granillo on Tacoma's success in shrinking its homeless population // Dose of Kindness -- a nonprofit for racial inclusion in the pilot community // Sports Insider Danny O'Neil on Jacob Hollister joining the 'Hawks/ Sebastian Janikowski retiring // David Fahrenthold on the 2020 election/ congressional bank subpoenas // Rachel Belle on meeting your neighbors // Benji Backer, founder of the American Conservation Coalition

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Benji Backer, A Young Republican Fighting Climate Change

Ross Files with Dave Ross

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 30, 2019 18:07 Transcription Available

Benjamin "Benji" Backer is the founder and president of the American Conservation Coalition (ACC), a growing cohort of young Republicans who want to see action on climate change from their representatives. He's also a junior at the University of Washington. In the last six months, the ACC has expanded to 125 college campuses nationwide. Dave talks with Benji about how his organization is bringing older conservatives on board with protecting the environment, why he's not a fan of the Green New Deal, and how Benji is balancing school with running a national organization.

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Election Day, Conservative Environmental Policy & Judicial Originalism

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Play Episode Listen Later Apr 2, 2019 100:01

(0:00) Local News Chat: Local Elections & Flying Driver(20:08) Your Take on Nonpartisan Local Officials(39:51) Benji Backer on Climate & Green New Deal(59:55) Jerry Bader on SCOWIS Race & Originalism(1:31:46) The Takeaway: Partisanship vs Ideology

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December 17, 2018 - Hour 3 (Guest Host Terry Gilberg)

The Seth Leibsohn Show

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 18, 2018 38:11

Michael Flynn and James Comey, and coercion. Benji Backer of the American Conservation Coalition joins Terry to talk about environmental conservation and conservatism.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Drugged Driving & Conservative Environmentalism

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Play Episode Listen Later Sep 4, 2018 98:34

Local News Chat: WBAY's Kathryn Bracho on Weather & Back to School (0:00)Your Take: Trump Tweets, Drugged Driving & Independents (19:00)Jerry Bader and Benji Backer on GOP & Environmentalism (56:53)The Takeaway: Understanding Your Unique Audience (1:29:48)

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Millennials Seek Bipartisan Action on Climate

Political Climate

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 25, 2018 59:55

What does the rise of millennials mean for climate action? Will this plugged-in generation make climate change a priority? Can they find common ground between liberals and conservatives to solve this issue collectively?Millennials are on the brink of becoming the largest generation in America. That means they will have an enormous impact on U.S. politics in the years ahead. In fact, they’re having an impact on politics already.In this episode of Political Climate we talk to millennials who are channeling their concerns about climate change into action — inclusive and bipartisan action.We speak to Benji Backer, president and founder of the American Conservation Coalition, a nonprofit focused on rallying young conservatives around environmental policy reform; and to Lydia Avila, executive director of the Power Shift Network, an organization working to mobilize the collective power of young people to mitigate climate change and create a just, clean energy future.But first, we address the latest climate news from Capitol Hill: Congressman Carlos Curbelo’s new carbon tax bill, and a House resolution denouncing the idea of a carbon tax altogether.Just how hopeful for climate action can Americans be?Recommended reading:Guardian: Republican lawmaker pitches carbon tax in defiance of party stanceInside Climate: House Votes to Denounce Carbon Taxes. Where Was the Climate Solutions Caucus?GTM: Reading Republicans on Climate a Decade After America’s Cap-and-Trade CollapseTeen Vogue: Pennsylvania Gubernatorial Candidate Scott Wagner Called Me “Young and Naive”Pew: Millennials projected to overtake Baby Boomers as America’s largest generationAmerican Conservation CoalitionPower Shift NetworkSubscribe to the Political Climate podcast via Apple Podcasts, Google Play, TuneIn, Overcast, Stitcher and Spotify.Follow Political Climate on Twitter @Poli_Climate.

Ep. 93 - Burger King: Home of the Woke-er

The Michael Knowles Show

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 24, 2018 49:44

The popular drug deal terminal and homeless shelter Burger King has a new marketing campaign. The Home of the Whopper no longer boasts about its bigger beef. Now the fast food giant is relying on leftist politics to sell hamburgers. We'll analyze their latest ad and what it means for the culture. Then, Benji Backer tries to convince me that conservatives should care about the environment. Finally, Jacob Airey joins the Panel of Deplorable to talk about that sexual deviant Barney the Dinosaur, illegal aliens screaming at Chuck Schumer and for some reason not being arrested and deported, and why half the country wants to investigate the FBI. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ep. 93 - Burger King: Home of the Woke-er

The Michael Knowles Show

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 24, 2018 49:44

The popular drug deal terminal and homeless shelter Burger King has a new marketing campaign. The Home of the Whopper no longer boasts about its bigger beef. Now the fast food giant is relying on leftist politics to sell hamburgers. We’ll analyze their latest ad and what it means for the culture. Then, Benji Backer tries to convince me that conservatives should care about the environment. Finally, Jacob Airey joins the Panel of Deplorable to talk about that sexual deviant Barney the Dinosaur, illegal aliens screaming at Chuck Schumer and for some reason not being arrested and deported, and why half the country wants to investigate the FBI.

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Fresh Take with Josh Dukelow on WHBY 12/21/17

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 21, 2017 96:38

Local News Chat (0:00)Appleton Alderman Bob Baker on US Venture project (10:25)The Takeaway: Conserving Our Home (18:35)Prof Rebecca McKean, St Norbert College Geology Dept (28:40)Benji Backer on conservative environmentalism (37:00)Mike Ellis on incentives, tax cuts, and who's "Naughty & Nice" in 2017 (56:37)

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Fresh Take with Josh Dukelow on WHBY 08/07/17