Harry Reid

Center for American ProgressGive ’em hell, Harry!

Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) has no doubt about what’s causing this summer’s disastrous Western fire season: climate change.

Reader support makes our work possible. Donate today to keep our site free. All donations DOUBLED!

During a meeting with reporters this week, Reid linked global warming to a 28,000-acre blaze in Nevada that caused hundreds to be evacuated from their homes. After being mocked by conservative media, he doubled down and made his points again in front of a group of reporters.

“The West is being devastated by wildfires. Millions of acres are burning. Millions of acres have burned,” Reid said on Thursday. “Why? Because the climate has changed. The winters are shorter; the summers are hotter; the moisture patterns have changed.”

Grist thanks its sponsors. Become one.

Asked by a reporter what needs to be done, Reid said, “Talk about climate change as if it really exists, not beat around the bush.”

He also called for more federal spending to prevent wildfires.

Watch the video:

Grist thanks its sponsors. Become one.