Florida was hit by devastating hurricanes just weeks before the November elections, causing over 230 deaths and $50 billion in damages each. The environmental catastrophe has cast a light on the climate policies of Senate candidates Republican Rick Scott and Democrat Debbie Mucarsel-Powell.
Scott, who narrowly won the Senate seat in 2018, acknowledges climate change impacts but has received criticism for his ties to the oil and gas industries. He has also been faulted for his environmental record during his time as governor, including cutting budgets for water management and curtailing oversight of local planning decisions.
Mucarsel-Powell, who served in the House, has been praised for her pro-environment votes and efforts to obtain funding for disaster relief and infrastructure projects. She criticizes Scott for his votes against climate-related funding and for his ties to the insurance industry.
The race is considered a likely Republican win by the Cook Political Report, with Scott holding a 4-point lead in the polls. However, there is a growing demand among Floridians for candidates who prioritize reducing climate impacts, and Mucarsel-Powell is positioning herself as an advocate for these issues.
Both candidates have taken contrasting stances on climate change, with Scott emphasizing the need for bipartisan efforts to address climate issues while Mucarsel-Powell highlights the urgency for immediate action. As Florida continues to face the devastating effects of the hurricanes, the state’s residents will play a crucial role in determining the outcome of this closely-watched Senate race.
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