Is It Only Liberals Who Think that Mileage Standards Would Reduce Global Warming?

by

Let's see, raising auto mileage standards would mean that the cars sold in the United States use less gasoline for each mile driven. Unless the savings on gas causes people to increase their driving enough to offset the improved mileage (pretty unlikely), then higher auto mileage standards will reduce carbon dioxide emissions from the auto sector. Unless this action spontaneously causes an increase in emissions from some other sector (also pretty unlikely) then we can say that mileage standards will reduce overall emissions of carbon dioxide. I don't think anyone still disputes the link between carbon dioxide emissions and global warming, so then why does the NYT tell us that it is just liberals that think that mileage standards will "combat global warming?" Clearly there can be differences about whether higher mileage standards are the best mechanism to combat global warming, but there is no serious dispute that they can slow global warming if implemented.

--Dean Baker

I’m writing to you today with a sense of urgency that I haven’t felt since I began my journalism career. As executive editor of The American Prospect, I’ve witnessed firsthand how independent journalism serves as a crucial bulwark against the erosion of our democratic institutions. Today, that role is more vital than ever. Can you step up today and show your support?

The winds of authoritarianism are blowing stronger. We’re seeing alarming signs of a coordinated effort to silence critical voices and undermine the very foundations that support progressive causes. As Bob Kuttner presciently wrote in our August 2024 issue, a weaponized IRS could attack the very foundations of the progressive movement. We need readers to step up and help us dig in for the long haul.

We’re falling behind in our spring fundraising campaign, and with so much at stake we can’t afford to come up short. If you value fearless, independent journalism that holds the powerful accountable and defends democracy, now is the time to step up. The American Prospect depends on reader support to stay in the fight. Pitch in today and help us close the gap. Please consider making a donation today.

–David Dayen, Executive Editor