HUNTINGTON BEACH, CA — Today, California Environmental Voters (EnviroVoters) hosted a Democracy Roundtable with Representative Katie Porter, Councilmember Kalmick, and Councilmember Natalie Moser. for a discussion on this election and opportunities to protect democracy. With the 2024 election around the corner, democratic participation will play a critical role in shaping policies around our climate crisis. The roundtable is a reminder that a healthy democracy is essential for addressing long-term challenges like the climate crisis, effectively and equitably.
“Democracy is the cornerstone of our fight against the climate crisis. Only through a democratic process that values every voice can we achieve the sweeping changes necessary to protect our communities. A strong democracy ensures that leaders are held accountable, that the public has a say in shaping policies, and that the needs of our frontline communities are prioritized,” said Aaron McCall, Federal Advocacy Coordinator, California Environmental Voters. “As we confront the urgent challenges posed by our climate challenge, we must also work to strengthen and protect our democratic institutions.”
“I am committed to defending our democratic institutions because they are our bedrock to build a safer, more resilient future. Our ability to effectively address the climate crisis hinges on having a government that listens to its people, acts on the best available science, and holds those in power accountable,” said Representative Katie Porter. “A healthy democracy empowers citizens to demand bold action, facilitates transparency in decision-making, and fosters the collaboration needed to implement sustainable solutions.”
“We’re seeing democracy under attack at the federal level, but now the focus has shifted to local elections. Those who do not support true democratic principles this country was founded on are using local low turnout elections to raid city and school board treasuries to litigate unpopular anti-democratic policies,” said Huntington Beach City Councilmember Dan Kalmick. “We’ve seen it here in Huntington Beach and we must all take note and push back against a small minority wrapping unpopular policy in patriotic rhetoric. ‘Environmental policies’ that are in fact anti land use policies hurt our local environment by overturning popular protections to land, water and air quality.”
“In Huntington Beach and beyond, our democracy is being tested. The integrity of our local elections and the policies that emerge from them are vital to ensuring a sustainable and just future. Protecting our environment goes hand in hand with protecting our democratic institutions—both are essential for the well-being of our communities,” said Huntington Beach City Councilmember Natalie Moser. “We must remain vigilant and proactive, ensuring that every voice is heard and that our actions today lay the foundation for a healthier planet and a more resilient democracy tomorrow.”
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CONTACT:
Erika Guzman Cornejo
310-755-1615
erika@envirovoters.org
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ABOUT CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL VOTERS
California Environmental Voters (formerly the California League of Conservation Voters) believes the climate crisis is here and this moment requires transformative change. California has the policy solutions to stop climate change but lacks the political will to do it at the rate and scale that’s necessary. EnviroVoters exists to build the political power to solve the climate crisis, advance justice, and create a roadmap for global action. We organize voters, elect and train candidates, and hold lawmakers accountable for bold policy change. We won’t stop until we have resilient, healthy, thriving communities, and a democracy and economy that is just and sustainable for all. Join us at www.envirovoters.org and on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. See more press releases.
