Hi Folks,
You may have seen reporting that Joe Manchin was quoted as saying “The carbon tax is not on the board at all right now.”
While this is disappointing, my sense is that the media is somewhat overreacting. As we know, the media love a fight and love to announce the death of carbon taxes. But there are also clear reports from Senate Finance and the White House that a carbon tax is very much a part of the discussion (see Washington Examiner and Politico Morning Energy with a quote from CCL).
I would also note that Manchin’s quote did not say he wouldn’t support a carbon tax, he just said that it is not “on the board at all right now” which could be interpreted in a number of ways (not yet agreed to, not in discussion yet, etc.)
Because a carbon tax comes from the Senate Finance committee Manchin has not been part of that process in the same way he has been with the CEPP which would have to go through his committee, Energy and Natural Resources. So it is not surprising that he has not been part of those discussions.
So, while this development is unfortunate, I do not think it is conclusive and this is not a time to give up on carbon pricing. It may not yet be “on the board” but it is definitely on the table and in the discussions.
The roller coaster continues!
Tony
PS The quotes from Senator Tester are also disappointing but also inconclusive. We are optimistic that he is open to a carbon price if it is done right.
PPS You may also have heard that Mitt Romney voiced support for a carbon price yesterday. Just to be clear, we do not think there is any reasonable chance that a Republican would vote for the entire reconciliation package given all that is in there. That said, Romney’s support may give cover for moderate Democrats and speaks to the political durability of a carbon fee and dividend.
PPS Meanwhile CCLers continue to push hard and get results. Check out this Editorial from the Santa Rosa Press Democrat.
Thank you Tony! And for those that missed it live or would like to watch the recap, here's the 30 minute legislative update and Q&A Tony provided on for last night! 🎉
Search Forums
Forum help
Select a question below
CCL Community Guidelines
- Discuss, ask and share
- Be respectful
- Respect confidentiality
- Protect privacy
CCL Blog Policy Area Categories
- Price on Carbon
- CBAM
- Clean Energy Permitting Reform
- Healthy Forests
- Building Electrification and Efficiency