High Energy During Energy Reform Talks in the US Senate

By: Shriya Beesabathuni

During a recent United States Senate meeting, 43 US senators were present during a debate discussing energy reform. 47% of the senators have affiliated with the democratic party and 53% of the senators were republican. Senators discussed the pressing issue of energy reform. Senators were passionate and diligent while listening to others. 

Many contrasting ideas were present during this meeting including the contrast on the opinions regarding nuclear energy. Johnny Isakson, a Republican senator stated, “I believe nuclear is the best option” as it produces more energy. Opposingly, Senator Tim Kaine, who represents the democratic party does not agree with Isakson’s statement. Kaine believes that nuclear energy, despite high efficiency, creates toxic waste that harms citizens. His state, Virginia, has been affected by a nuclear reactor as it polluted the air causing citizens to receive health issues, this nuclear reactor was the only one present in the state. Kaine continued to state that other forms of energy, such as wind, solar and hydro, will be more effective and safe for citizens. The senator concluded by expressing a slow transition from nuclear energy to other, safer forms, the production of energy will be less harmful and more effective. During the discussion on nuclear energy, there was a trend across the senate, with most Republican senators supporting the use of nuclear energy and most democratic senators doing the opposite.

As time passed by, the energy continued to increase while the discussion shifted to a brief discussion led by Democratic Senator Brian Schatz. This discussion consisted of talks regarding coal and oil. Schatz started off by stating that the development of a new energy source is in need, as coal and oil will soon run out. Coal and oil are both fundamental, as they provide an immense amount of energy.  If these substances run out, Schatz says, that there will be large losses in the economy, as jobs will be lost and monetary loss will also occur. Overall, Schatz believes that a foundation for a new energy source should be placed. 

In essence, the United States Senate is working hard to find a solution to the pressing issue concerning energy reform. As stated by Republican Senator, Richard Shelby, the United States senate represents all 50 states that this great nation leads forward. The discussions regarding energy reform have maintained a high level of energy as many clashing ideas are present. Despite this, senators are attempting to stay bipartisan for the development and improvement of the United States. 

Mitch McConnell Gets Sacked!

By: Brady Noble

The United States Senate is clearly divided over the issue of climate change. There is a wide spectrum of perspectives, from anti-climate change sentiments  to others who see it as a top priority. As the substantive debate occurred , it became clear that Senator Mitch McConnell (R-KY) has been involved in misconduct. Eventually, both sides came to a consensus that , that he should be removed as Senate Majority Leader. Senators Johnny Isakson (R-GA) and Mike Lee (R-UT) spoke in favor of the removal. On the opposing side, Senator McConnell represented himself on the Senate floor. In addition, he was supported by Senator Shelley Capito (R-WV), who spoke on his behalf. Eventually, the former prevailed, and Mitch McConnell was removed as Senate Majority Leader. 

With McConnell’s removal established, it was then time to consider nominations for a new Senate Majority Leader. Republican Senators were asked to nominate who they wanted to be McConnell’s successor. Eventually, 4 nominations were made: Mike Lee, Richard Shelby (R-AL), Johnny Isakson and Pat Roberts (R-KS). Three out of the four senators gained the 1/5th vote needed to continue into voting. Richard Shelby did not attain this quota, and thus was dropped from consideration. On the Democratic side, Bernie Sanders (D-VT) was elected Senate Minority Leader, and Dianne Feinstein (D-CA) was named to be the Senate Minority Whip.

After the voting ended, debate continued on the issue of climate change, where the partisanship was more evident than ever.