The Nature Conservancy’s Statement on U.S. Midterm Elections

The following is a statement by Darci Vetter, Global Head of Policy and Government Relations at The Nature Conservancy, regarding the U.S. midterm elections:

“While we don’t yet know the outcome of the U.S. midterm elections, we do know that the economy, inflation, equity and justice, health care, and the health of our natural world are front of mind for millions of Americans. Ultimately, all of these issues are connected, and we don’t have time to waste. Science tells us that we must act with a sense of urgency to address the climate and biodiversity crises, which are having devastating effects on people’s lives and livelihoods. Regardless of the outcome of the election, we can’t afford to lose the momentum and action we’ve seen in Congress over the last few years to address these crises head on.

“In recent years, there have been significant local, state, and federal policy and legislative gains for people and nature across the United States. In fact, more than $11 billion for conservation programs – from wildfire resilience to land and water conservation to parks and equity – are on state, county, and local ballots this election. At the federal level, the passage of the bipartisan infrastructure bill, the Inflation Reduction Act, and other bills demonstrate the broad appeal and benefits of addressing the challenges facing nature. But, the work can’t end there. The United States will need additional, aggressive steps to transform its economy, build community resilience, and invest in people and nature to meet its climate and conservation goals.

“The Nature Conservancy has worked with lawmakers across the political spectrum for decades to defend people and nature and help them thrive. We will continue to advocate for meaningful and lasting solutions that protect communities, grow the economy, and foster a brighter, safer, and more equitable future for all. We look forward to working during the lame duck period and with the new Congress on these critical and crucial issues.”