WASHINGTON — Today, RealClearEnergy published an op-ed by CRES President Heather Reams celebrating Rep. John Curtis’ (R-Utah) victory in the recent Utah Republican primary for the U.S. Senate, his climate journey and his many successes — including founding the Conservative Climate Caucus.
Read the full op-ed here or below:
Rep. John Curtis’ (R-Utah) victory in the recent Republican primary election places him in a very strong position to become Utah’s next senator. His steadfast leadership in the conservative climate movement makes him a standout choice to represent the Beehive State and presents a crucial opportunity for Utah, the country and our nation’s energy and climate policies.
The all-of-the-above energy ethos is championed by Rep. Curtis—and for good reason, too: it’s driven organically by his state. Utah is fortunate to have large reserves of natural gas, as well as a booming clean energy sector that is moving the needle on technologies for increased geothermal, hydrogen, advanced nuclear and carbon capture and storage facilities. In recent years, the clean energy sector in Utah brought in millions of dollars in new investment and accounts for nearly 44,000 new, good-paying jobs .
I first met Rep. Curtis while speaking at a luncheon for Members of Congress on the importance of an all-of-the-above approach to energy. We discussed ways to recognize Republicans for the work they were already doing to support pathways for reliable and affordable clean energy.
From there, Rep. Curtis took a bold step by founding the Conservative Climate Caucus (CCC) in 2021. In just three short years, the CCC has grown significantly. It now boasts over 80 Republican Members of Congress leading the charge to engage Republicans and constituents in districts across the country. Policies championed by the Caucus are based on conservative principles and aim to reduce global emissions by prioritizing American interests: lowering energy costs for American families and businesses, re-shoring our supply chains, advancing innovation to increase American manufacturing and competitiveness while capitalizing on US- produced energy to increase our geopolitical influence. Rep. Curtis knows that when we eliminate unnecessary obstacles the stifle American innovation, we make America stronger and reduce global emissions.
As Chair of the Conservative Climate Foundation (CCF), a non-profit organization founded in 2021 to support the conservative climate community, I have had the unique opportunity to collaborate with the many conservative Members and staff working on climate issues, including Rep. Curtis and the CCC.
Working closely with CCF, Rep. Curtis has led the effort to expand a conservative presence and bring Republican voices to the annual United Nations Climate Change Conference known as COP, beginning with COP26 in Glasgow, Scotland, in 2021. Since then, CCF has hosted several Republican Members of Congress and nearly 50 congressional staff at subsequent COPs to showcase the dedication of Republican leaders to address climate change on an international stage and to advocate for a conservative approach to solving this global issue.
Meanwhile, back in his home state, Rep. Curtis continues to facilitate these important discussions at his Conservative Climate Summit in Utah. For three years running, he has convened state and federal leaders, from Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon (R-Wyo.) and House Natural Resources Chairman Bruce Westerman (R-Ark.) to now-CCC Chair Mariannette Miller-Meeks (R-Iowa), who understand how environmental protection and economic prosperity can go hand-in-hand.
Last week, Rep. Curtis joined me at a Conservative Climate Reception during the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, commemorating the great strides of the conservative climate movement since last GOP convention. Rep. Curtis drew attention to the shift in voter sentiment that prioritizes commonsense climate solutions and praised Republicans for taking a seat at the table.
Rep. Curtis’ efforts have resulted in a much-needed conservative voice on energy and climate policymaking, emphasizing a “big tent” energy approach, sharpened by American innovation and leadership. These milestones are worthy of celebration, but there is plenty of work ahead including permitting reform, advanced energy innovation and rebuilding America’s supply chains, which will continue to strengthen our economy, secure our nation and protect our environment for generations to come.
Heather Reams is president of Citizens for Responsible Energy Solutions (CRES)
Read the full op-ed here.