Pinal Today

Climate Cabinet Action, an organization dedicated to climate policy accountability, has assigned Representative T.J. Shope (R-AZ) an F- grade for his lack of support towards climate-related policies. This grading was part of the recent National Scorecard released by the group.

The latest National Scorecard from Climate Cabinet Action is intended to hold state legislators accountable for their voting behaviors on critical climate legislation. The report allocated Republicans in Arizona grades of either F or F-, while Democrats were given A or A-. It is not explicitly stated on the website why these ratings were given, but Arizona Republican lawmakers believe it's because of their inadequate backing for the Green New Deal.

The ratings are based on how legislators vote on particular issues tied to "housing, transportation, energy, agriculture, industry, and environmental justice." Climate Cabinet Action promotes environmental policies such as the Green New Deal and restrictions on gas stoves and purchases of electric vehicles.

The Green New Deal is a proposal designed to tackle the "climate crisis" by guiding the United States towards 100% clean energy by 2030. This plan involves investing in renewable energy sources, expanding public transport options, promoting employment growth in green industries among other things. Its ultimate objective is sustainability and minimizing the country's dependence on fossil fuels as mentioned by Green Party US.

Established in 2018 by a group of volunteer advocates focused on promoting climate-based information and strategies for state and local level candidates, Climate Cabinet Action provides "local climate talking points, messaging, policy solutions, and incumbent voting records for any district in the US". The organization has contributed to various campaigns across states including Arizona, Texas, Minnesota and Michigan.

Representative Justin Heap (R-AZ) has voiced his opinion on this grading system stating: "The best test you can ever fail," according to a post shared via platform X. He further adds: "As Vice Chair of Ways and Means and a member of Commerce, the Arizona Freedom Caucus has taken a strong stand against the radical Green New Deal agenda that threatens farmers, ranchers, mining, energy production, and individual liberty in our great state. I'm going to hang this report card on my fridge."