WASHINGTON - As Democratic candidates begin to establish priorities and set their strategies for the 2018 election cycle, one policy position is emerging as an early trend: More than 100 candidates for the U.S. House and Senate have already committed to backing the Off Fossil Fuels for a Better Future Act (OFF Act), which would halt all new fossil fuel development and commit America to 100 percent clean, renewable energy by 2035. Sponsored by Rep. Tulsi Gabbard (D-HI), the OFF Act is the strongest, most comprehensive climate and energy legislation ever introduced in Congress. The pledge was organized by Food & Water Action, the political advocacy counterpart of Food & Water Watch.

Notable Democratic candidates that have already committed to backing the OFF Act include:

Randy Bryce in Wisconsin, challenging Rep. Paul Ryan

Derrick Crowe, a climate scientist running for Rep. Lamar Smith’s empty seat

Marie Newman, challenging Rep. Dan Lipinski in what CNN calls 9 Democratic primaries to watch

Debbie Mucarsel-Powell, running against Rep. Carlos Curbelo in one of Politico’s top races to watch

Several other top contenders in races rated toss-up by Cook Political Report

“For years, Congress has failed to address impending climate catastrophe head-on. They’ve condoned new oil and gas production, more fracking, and market-based carbon pricing schemes that fall far short of the aggressive transition to clean, renewable energy our society desperately needs,” said Wenonah Hauter, executive director of Food & Water Action. “This early, robust support for the OFF Act among a fresh crop of Democrats signals a clear shift and a clear acknowledgement that the party’s base is ready for bold action. The only acceptable position on climate and energy is demanding an immediate end to new fossil fuel production and a rapid transition to clean, renewable energy now.”

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“There is an amazing wave of support for the OFF Fossil Fuels For a Better Future Act, HR3671, from candidates for Congress in 2018,” said Donna Smith, executive director of Progressive Democrats of America. “These individuals clearly understand the relationship between the steps we take to achieve 100 percent renewable energy and the health of our bodies and our planet. PDA applauds their leadership and looks forward to helping turn pledged candidates into Congressional Co-sponsors for the OFF Act.”

“People's Action and our members know that we can't solve the climate crisis without bold action including resources for the communities who are hardest hit by pollution, divestment and the climate crisis,” said Jessica Juarez Scruggs, Deputy Director of Policy at People's Action Institute. “I'm encouraged to see so many candidates ready to stand with our communities and support the OFF Act.”

To view the candidates that have signed the pledge, visit https://www.offfossilfuels.org/off-act/candidate-pledge/.

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