How Republicans Learned To Reject Climate Change

by Alan Greenblatt
NPR
March 25, 2010

As climate change emerged as a top issue on the national scene a few years ago, it had one unusual quality: The response to it showed surprising signs of bipartisan support.

Two or three years ago, Republicans such as Sen. John McCain and Govs. Arnold Schwarzenegger and Charlie Crist played nearly as prominent a role as Al Gore in advocating a robust regulatory response.

No more. Climate hasn't yet become as partisan an issue as, say, health care and taxes. But it's getting there.

Growing Partisan Divide

Some Republicans who advocated tough environmental measures are leaving the scene, such as Schwarzenegger, who signed a landmark California law capping carbon emissions in 2006 but is term-limited out of office as governor this year.

Others have switched their positions, advocating more of a market response and shying away from strict governmental controls. That's especially true of Republicans reaching for higher office — including the presidency.

(Original here.)