During an event marking the commencement of San Francisco’s Climate Week, a prominent figure in climate advocacy criticized the current administration. Former Vice President Al Gore expressed strong disapproval of the Trump administration’s approach to power and climate change, likening its tactics to those reminiscent of Germany in the 1930s. This comparison was made in the context of accusations that the administration is creating a distorted version of reality.
In his speech at the Exploratorium museum, Gore acknowledged the uniqueness of the evil associated with Adolf Hitler’s Third Reich and clarified his understanding of its historical significance. He emphasized the importance of learning from history’s darker chapters to prevent similar patterns from emerging.
Gore also condemned the administration’s resistance to the transition towards renewable energy, a crucial step as global climate concerns continue to escalate. He argued that, in just a few months, the administration has actively sought to hinder the shift to sustainable energy sources and reduce fossil fuel consumption.
Highlighting controversial claims made by the administration, Gore mentioned their dismissal of climate change as a hoax, assertions about coal’s cleanliness, and dubious statements regarding wind turbines and sea level rise. He rallied the audience, urging action as he described the nation as being “under attack.”
Gore’s criticism comes amid a wave of public disapproval from former presidents, who have recently voiced concerns about the administration’s policies. In the past two weeks, Joe Biden, Barack Obama, and Bill Clinton have individually spoken out, although none have directly named the president in their remarks.
During a speech at Hamilton College in New York, Obama addressed the administration’s increasing challenges to educational institutions. He emphasized the role of citizens in safeguarding democracy, urging them to speak up against perceived injustices.
In his first speech after leaving office, Biden criticized proposed cuts to social security, highlighting the adverse impacts on beneficiaries. He underscored the significant harm caused by the administration within its initial months, labeling their actions as intentionally harmful.