Combating Climate Change
As the former president of an Illinois company that researches and develops solar energy technology, Raja understands both the science and economics of climate change, and he knows that the time for America’s clean energy future is now. A cleaner environment and a stronger economy are not competing goals, as many in Congress seem to believe. Instead, nations that lead the way in developing clean energy technology today will gain a competitive advantage in creating the high-paying jobs of tomorrow.
In 2018, Raja founded the bipartisan Congressional Solar Caucus to raise awareness for how policymakers, business leaders, and academic experts can work together to foster jobs, growth, and America’s leadership in the solar industry.
During his time in Congress, Raja has led a bipartisan effort to dedicate funds for programs to lower solar costs, making clean energy a more financially viable option for families and businesses throughout Illinois’ 8th district and the country. This effort was a part of the Energy & Water appropriations bill that was signed into law in December of 2019.
The Paris Agreement among 195 nations provides a framework for global action on the climate, and the U.S. is well positioned to lead the way. Unfortunately, President Trump is attempting to block this progress, having withdrawn America from this historic agreement. Many members of Congress have also claimed that the human contribution to climate change is unproven. This is absurd, as the vast majority of scientists and experts agree that global climate change is man-made.
Now is the time to combat this global threat in a smart way that saves our environment while preserving and creating jobs. Raja’s first resolution in Congress, H.Res.85, sought to compel the White House to stay within the Paris Agreement and to work with US allies that signed the Paris Agreement to combat climate change. Even though President Trump has initiated withdrawal, Raja remains hopeful that this action can be reversed after the next election. America, in concert with other countries, must work to reverse the damage being done to the global environment.
For his efforts in defending the environment and advocating for the expansion of green energies, Raja has proudly received the endorsement of the Sierra Club.