As originally published in the L.A. Times.
To the editor: I was dismayed to read about the blowback that Chad Mayes, the Republican leader in the California Assembly, had to endure simply for supporting clean energy, which is not a controversial issue. (“Assembly Republican leader Chad Mayes is still in charge after caucus meeting — but another vote is on the way,” Aug. 21)
His position aligns with the views of Republican voters nationwide, especially among GOP millennials — the future of the party. According to a recent poll conducted by my organization, Citizens for Responsible Energy Solutions Forum, nearly two-thirds of younger Republican voters favor the federal government taking steps to reduce emissions of gases like carbon dioxide that cause climate change.
Clean energy has now reached high levels of support in my party, backed by a majority of all Republicans, including supporters of President Trump.
Principled public servants who are both free-market conservatives and advocates for clean energy should be commended. I agree with the business leaders cited in the article: Mayes’ stance was courageous.
Charles Hernick, Washington
The writer is director of policy and advocacy for Citizens for Responsible Energy Solution Forum.