CCU Training: Navigating Climate Advocacy in a Changing Political Landscape

Danny Richter, a policy fellow for CCL, led a discussion on CCL's strategic approach to engaging with the newly configured Congress. He highlighted the organization's priorities, including defending the clean energy provisions of the Inflation Reduction Act, advocating for the Fix Our Forest Act, supporting Foreign Pollution Fees and cautiously entering the permitting reform space. Danny emphasized the shift in CCL's approach from playing offense to playing defense, as we now focus on defending a bill that has already been passed. He also noted the change in the balance of power, with Republicans holding a majority in both the Senate and the House, and the importance of understanding this new context for effective Congressional engagement.

This discussion stresses the importance of thinking ahead, preparing for multiple swings of the political pendulum, and maintaining positive relationships with both Democratic and Republican members of Congress. Danny also highlighted the need for volunteer empowerment, focusing on climate issues, and being a science-based organization. He acknowledged the need for uncomfortable trade-offs in addressing climate change and the importance of diverse approaches to achieve change.

Chapters & Timestamps – “Navigating Climate Advocacy in a Changing Political Landscape”

0:00 – Welcome and Learning Goals

Danny lays out the goals: confidence engaging Congress, clarity on CCL’s strategic approach, and understanding how the context has shifted.

0:46 – Why This Training Now?

Overview of CCL’s top priorities in the new Congress:

1. Defending IRA tax credits

2. Advancing the Fix Our Forests Act

3. Supporting foreign pollution fees

2:10 – The Shift to Playing Defense

For the first time, CCL is playing defense—not just pushing new bills.

4:26 – Political Landscape: GOP Control of Congress & Trump Presidency

What unified Republican control means for agenda-setting and strategy.

7:35 – CCL’s Strategy: Long-Term Thinking & Bipartisan Relationships

How we work across Congress configurations and why our bipartisan strategy stands out.

10:55 – Volunteer Empowerment & Staying Focused on Climate

Why keeping meetings focused on climate empowers volunteers and preserves access.

12:56 – The Role of Science & Uncomfortable Trade-Offs

The science tells us we’re in the age of consequences—renewables vs. local impact, etc.

14:12 – Durability & Consistency of CCL’s Impact

Reflections on CCL’s sustained influence and why it matters.

15:02 – Lessons from Past GOP-Controlled Congresses

How CCL passed 3 climate bills during Trump’s first term using respectful engagement.

17:03 – The New MAGA Era: GOP Unity and Behind-the-Scenes Dissent

Differences in today’s Republican Party compared to 2016–2020.

18:10 – Democratic Party Shifts

How Democrats are reassessing messaging post-election (DEI backlash, inflation, media strategy).

21:14 – Engagement Tactics: Segmenting Members of Congress

Approaches vary by chamber and ideology. Use “economy, jobs, and global competition” with Republicans.

26:35 – Conclusions: Strategy & Values Amid a Challenging Context

Empathy, strategy, and staying the course with CCL’s approach.