Climate Security Measures: a Necessity or Barrier to American Citizens’ Prosperity? A Comparative Analysis of Trump and Biden’s Climate Policies

Abstract

This article aims to identify the similarities and differences in climate policy between presidents Joe Biden and Donald Trump. This is accomplished by answering the following research questions: (1) What stance have both administrations taken on burning fossil fuels and using renewable energy sources? and (2) Have the administrations recognized the United States’ responsibility for the largest historical cumulative CO2 emissions of any country and thus engaged in global climate policy by setting specific commitments to reduce GHG emissions? These questions are answered using comparative analysis, the descriptive method, and synthesis. The research indicates that Joe Biden and Donald Trump have different views on climate change, impacting their attitudes toward fossil fuels and renewable energy sources, as well as the United States’ commitment to the Paris Agreement. Biden recognized climate change as a threat to national security and the prosperity of Americans and made it a significant element of his foreign policy. President Biden set specific GHG emission reduction targets to achieve the goals of the Paris Agreement. In contrast, President Trump refers to a “global warming hoax” and views actions to reduce GHG emissions as barriers to economic development and American prosperity. Trump has also decided to withdraw the United States from the Paris Agreement and cease financing climate projects in developing countries.