Democratic Party shifts climate strategy to focus on energy costs

Democrats split over climate messaging after 2024 election wins

Democratic politicians, following recent electoral victories, have shifted their focus on climate change to emphasize clean energy as a means to save money. This approach, they believe, resonates more with voters than a direct focus on climate policy. Meanwhile, centrist groups within the party argue that an overemphasis on climate change has led to electoral losses.

During the 2024 campaign, former President Trump targeted Democrats, including President Biden and Vice President Harris, with misleading claims about climate change and clean energy. Despite this, Democratic winners like Mikie Sherrill, Zohran Mamdani, and Abigail Spanberger largely avoided discussing climate change, instead framing the energy transition as an affordability issue. This strategy proved successful for Sherrill, who won the New Jersey governor's race.

Climate Power, an advocacy group, sees an opportunity in Trump's attacks on renewable energy. They believe Democrats can win in the 2026 midterm elections by promoting cheaper, reliable clean energy options. However, centrist Democratic groups maintain that the party's focus on climate change has created a divide between wealthy Democrats and working-class voters.

Some Democrats, such as Kat Abughazaleh and Rep. Sean Casten, argue that politicians should not shy away from discussing climate change. Casten believes that Democrats should continue talking about the consequences of fossil fuel consumption and that the focus on affordability presents a political opportunity. Jared Littmann, the next mayor of Annapolis, Maryland, won by emphasizing immediate climate dangers like sea-level rise.

As Democrats navigate their climate politics, they face differing views on how to approach the issue. While some winners of recent elections have focused on affordability, others argue that climate change should remain a central topic. The upcoming 2026 midterm elections may provide more clarity on which strategy resonates most with voters.