Denise Lang-Brown

Elect Denise Lang-Brown

Do you agree with climate scientists that we are facing a climate emergency?

Yes

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Do you agree with climate scientists that greenhouse gas emissions must be reversed within 12 years in order to achieve carbon neutrality in time to keep global temperature rise below 1.5 degrees and to avoid catastrophic runaway climate disruption?

Yes

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In your opinion, why do political leaders set benchmarks and timeframes for emissions reductions that do not comport with  climate science mandates? If elected, what will you do differently than current leadership?

I trust scientists and do not trust corporate lobbyists.  I will recognize the immediate threat to our lives that climate change poses...and the solutions that scientists recommend.

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If elected, what specific policies will you initiate in your first year of service to begin transitioning our economy to net zero carbon emissions in the timeframe set by the world’s leading scientists?

I am not currently informed enough by the details of policy initiatives.  I am a quick study.

 

What measures will you propose and advance to ensure that economic recovery and the transition to a green economy fosters equity and economic & racial justice?

I have been a vocal voice for Ending the War on Drugs.  I support renewable energy and do not support the subsidies that have been given to the oil industry.

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If elected, will you support the creation of a Just Transition Study & Fund to identify alternative revenue sources for our state budget and invest in community-driven climate mitigation and adaptation strategies?  Explain.

Yes.  I support living wage jobs in industries we don't currently support: substance abuse treatment, recreational cannabis legalized and renewable energy.

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If elected, how will you include Indigenous and traditional land-based knowledge in the development of a sustainable economy for all of NM?

Yes.

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Who will you talk to about climate issues? Who advises you? What is your plan for community consultation on climate issues?

RenewNew Mexico, Wild Earth Guardians, Center for Bio-logical Diversity and am open to others.

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Define environmental racism in your own words and provide an example in NM

I'm a  former Branch Treasurer of the NAACP of Otero County and a member for many years,.  I am aware that environmental racism results in toxic waste being dumped near minority neighborhoods, as one example. Asking members of  LULAC and NAACP leadership is one way to garner knowledge.

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Do you believe climate action is an issue of intergenerational justice? What is the responsibility of your generation to the youth and future generations while in office? Explain.

Most definitely.  I have grandchildren and hope to provide a better world for their grandchildren.

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A) Do you support placing a moratorium on new gas development in the state of New Mexico? Why or Why Not?

Yes.  Natural gas is not a healthy option for the environment's future.

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B) Do you support placing a moratorium on new gas plant investment for utilities in New Mexico? Why or Why Not?

Yes, for the same answer above.

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Do you support nuclear energy? Why or Why Not?

No.  There are too many healthier options, including solar.

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Do you support a competitive energy market where Cities/Counties/Indigenous Nations are able to own, produce, and sell electricity to residents and keep energy dollars local?

YES! I have proposed this concept for years, living wage jobs in locally produced electricity is a national security tactic...and good for our communities.

 

Community Solar legislation has been brought up multiple times in the last few years. What is your position on community solar and what will you do to ensure that community solar is prioritized and passes?

Yes, I am passionate about solar.

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What do you believe is the fossil fuel industry/utility’s responsibility for cleanup and how as an elected official in the public office for which you are running do you plan to hold industry accountable for pollution and cleanup?

It is their responsibility to clean up after themselves.

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Do you believe bonding rates for industry should cover the full cost of cleanup?

Yes

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We have seen the oil industry collapse over the last month, with oil prices nosediving. Given our current situation and the danger our state’s budget is in, how do you see the role of oil and gas corporations in New Mexico’s future?

Hopefully, a shrinking role.

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Do you support utility bill forgiveness for low-income New Mexicans who have been hardest hit by the COVID-19 crisis?

Yes

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Some are saying that COVID-19 is the dress rehearsal for the climate crisis. In fact, in many places throughout the world, the two are compounding crises. What do you think we can learn from the COVID-19 crisis when addressing the climate crisis?

Listen to scientists, ask for the data, question everything.  We are hopefully learning that we really are one village.

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Describe your previous experience working on social/health/environmental issues, do you have experience working with impacted communities to co-develop solutions? How will you use this experience to tackle the climate crisis?

I organized 8 years of 'We Trust Women Commemoration of Roe v Wade'; for 4 years had booth at County Fair advocating  the END of the War on Drugs; I'm on Juvenile Justice Advisory Board promoting Restorative Justice, and I would use all I've learned to tackle climate crisis."

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What are your ideas to loosen the grip of industry on the state legislature and strengthen our democracy?

I'm open to suggestions.

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Name specific alternative sources for state revenue that you'd pursue and propose if elected

Recreational marijuana for adults and the solar industry.

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Have you accepted any donations from fossil fuel companies or utilities? Yes/No

No

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Will you take the #fossilfree pledge? http://nofossilfuelmoney.org/politician-signup/

Yes