Discussing Climate Coming More Easily to Local, State Democrats

Democrats serving in local offices across the country say they’re finding themselves more liberated to talk about climate change and the environment.

Their messaging is being driven by mounting evidence of the effects of climate change in their districts and highly visible public figures who have tugged environmental issues into the mainstream.

“It feels a little bit like the way guns used to feel,” said Ross Morales Rocketto, co-founder of the progressive activist group Run for Something. “Back in the day, Democrats never felt they could touch guns. In the same way, Democrats are increasingly feeling like they can talk ...