Virginia Democratic Senator Tim Kaine is spearheading a resolution to reaffirm support for the Paris Climate Accords following President Donald Trump’s executive order withdrawing the United States from the international agreement. Kaine and his colleagues argue the move undermines global climate efforts and highlights the administration’s disregard for environmental concerns.
The resolution emphasizes climate actions taken by state and local governments, with Kaine pointing to investments made under the $891 billion Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 as evidence of American commitment to reducing emissions. The resolution also underscores the economic and environmental risks posed by climate change, particularly in Virginia.
“From sea level rise in Hampton Roads and on the Eastern Shore to hurricanes in southwest Virginia, climate change is affecting us all,” said Kaine. “I’m disappointed, but not surprised, by President Trump’s short-sighted withdrawal from the Paris Accords.”
This marks the second time Trump has pulled the U.S. from the Paris agreement. His first withdrawal occurred in the final weeks of his initial term, and President Joe Biden reentered the pact shortly after taking office. In 2023, the Biden administration committed to reducing U.S. greenhouse gas emissions by 61 to 66 percent below 2005 levels by 2035, as part of the agreement’s Nationally Determined Contribution.
Trump justified the decision by citing the need to prioritize American economic interests and reduce taxpayer burdens. His executive order argued that the Paris agreement disadvantages the U.S., steering funds to countries that do not require financial assistance and imposing unnecessary restrictions on private industry.
“The United States has demonstrated its ability to grow the economy while reducing greenhouse gas emissions without these agreements,” Trump stated. He emphasized that international accords must align with U.S. values and interests to merit participation.
The resolution has reignited debates over the Paris Climate Accords. Supporters argue that U.S. participation is essential to global efforts to combat climate change, foster international cooperation, and protect vulnerable communities. Critics, however, echo Trump’s concerns that the agreement imposes unfair burdens on American taxpayers and industries while allowing countries like China and India to benefit disproportionately. These opposing views reflect broader partisan divides on environmental policy, with the resolution likely to serve as a rallying point for Democrats and environmental activists while facing strong resistance from Republican lawmakers.
