WASHINGTON — Indiana Sen. Mike Braun is one of only a handful of Republicans that are engaged in the discussion in Congress when it comes to climate change.
The issue is a heavy part of President Biden’s agenda, especially in the $3.5 trillion social spending bill that is up for discussion in the Senate. Braun is among those that believe something should be done to curb climate change, but also believes in doing it responsibly.
“I’ve made it very clear that I want to be engaged in the issues,” Braun told a virtual town hall on Thursday. “But, I want to do it where we have honest pay-fors, and where we don’t borrow money from future generations.”
Braun said that is the only way climate issues can be solved in a matter that is sustainable. One of those sustainable solutions is investing in natural gas as a primary energy source.
“Utilities have already made a pretty strong statement that they are moving from coal to natural gas,” said Braun. “It is very clear in my mind that the cleanest, least expensive fuel needs to carry the day in the long run.”
Braun added that advanced nuclear technology is also an option, something he says Purdue University is at the forefront of figuring out. Regardless of which energy source is preferred, Braun said stopping climate change cannot be done by pulling the rug out from under people, especially businesses heavily invested in coal and other fossil fuels. He said these businesses need time to make the transition to clean energy.
Another way that he believes lawmakers need to help in the climate conversation is carbon markets. Braun said he and six other GOP lawmakers joined Democrats in pushing a bill through the Senate that makes it easier for Hoosier farmers to access carbon markets. It’s sitting in wait in the House right now.
