Larry Howe: A Republican Advocate for Climate Action in Texas
In the heart of Plano, Texas, Larry Howe stands as a testament to the growing movement of individuals who prioritize climate change, regardless of their political affiliations. With solar panels adorning his roof and an electric car parked in his garage, Howe embodies a commitment to sustainability that transcends traditional political boundaries. “The science is pretty well established,” he asserts, emphasizing the urgent need to address the accumulation of heat-trapping gases in our atmosphere.
A Mission for Education
In 2012, Howe took a significant step in his climate advocacy by founding a nonprofit organization aimed at educating Plano residents about solar power. His initiative reflects a broader trend of grassroots movements seeking to empower communities with knowledge about renewable energy. Howe’s dedication doesn’t stop there; he also volunteers with the Citizens’ Climate Lobby, a grassroots organization that advocates for climate solutions through bipartisan cooperation.
Howe has chronicled his climate journey through online blog posts, where he shares insights and personal experiences related to environmental issues. As the November election approaches, he has made it clear that climate change is his top priority, urging candidates to take a stand on this critical issue.
A Republican at a Crossroads
Despite his deep-rooted Republican values, Howe finds himself at a crossroads as he navigates the political landscape surrounding climate change. “If you want my vote, you’ve got to step up on climate and prioritize the issue,” he states emphatically. For Howe, the urgency of climate action is intertwined with trust in political leadership. He questions how candidates can be trusted on other significant issues—such as national security and immigration—if they fail to acknowledge the overwhelming evidence of climate change.
Public Sentiment vs. Political Rhetoric
Howe’s perspective is not isolated. According to the Yale Program on Climate Change Communication, a substantial majority of Texans—three out of four—believe that global warming is occurring, and nearly two-thirds express concern about its implications. Interestingly, while public sentiment leans toward acknowledging climate change, many Republican lawmakers have downplayed its significance, often opposing popular climate policies.
Polling data reveals that 56% of Texans attribute global warming primarily to human activities. Yet, the Texas GOP platform contradicts this public opinion by supporting the reclassification of carbon dioxide as a non-pollutant. This disconnect raises questions about the alignment of political leadership with the views of their constituents.
The Challenge of Political Polarization
The divide between public opinion and political rhetoric is further complicated by the increasing polarization surrounding climate change. Dallas GOP Chair, Ret. Lt. Col. Allen West, acknowledges environmental concerns but criticizes what he perceives as alarmism from the left. He advocates for a balanced approach that avoids extreme measures that could infringe on personal freedoms. “When you are telling me I ‘have to,’ then for whatever reason, I’m hitting the off switch,” West explains, highlighting a common sentiment among conservatives who feel alienated by aggressive climate policies.
David Spence, a professor at the University of Texas Law School, elaborates on this issue in his book, Climate of Contempt. He argues that the political discourse surrounding climate change has become increasingly hostile, with misinformation and caricatures dominating discussions. Spence emphasizes the need for civil dialogue across ideological lines to foster understanding and collaboration.
Confronting Political Representatives
Howe’s commitment to climate advocacy led him to confront his representative, Congressman Pat Fallon, during a town hall meeting in August. When Howe submitted a question about supporting public education on climate science, Fallon responded positively but veered into a lengthy discussion that Howe found unsatisfactory. “It had more misleading information than information that would help bring us together,” Howe remarked, underscoring the challenges of engaging with political leaders who may not fully grasp the urgency of climate issues.
Divergent Party Platforms
The contrasting approaches of Texas’ political parties toward environmental issues are stark. The Texas Republican Party dedicates a mere 900 words to energy and environmental policies in its 2024 platform, emphasizing opposition to initiatives that hinder business interests and advocating for the abolition of the Environmental Protection Agency. In contrast, the Texas Democratic Party devotes over 2,000 words to climate change, framing it as a critical threat to public health, economic stability, and future generations.
This divergence in party platforms illustrates the broader national debate on climate action, where partisan divides often hinder progress. As Howe and others like him navigate this complex landscape, the challenge remains: how to bridge the gap between public concern for climate change and the political will to address it effectively.
A Call for Unity
As Texas grapples with the realities of climate change, individuals like Larry Howe represent a growing faction of Republicans who are willing to advocate for environmental action. Their voices challenge the prevailing narratives within their party and call for a more nuanced approach to climate policy—one that prioritizes scientific evidence and seeks common ground across the political spectrum. In a time of division, Howe’s journey serves as a reminder that climate change is not just a political issue; it is a shared challenge that requires collective action and understanding.