John Kerry Urges Declaration of Climate Emergency, Advocates for Green Energy in Africa

Former Secretary of State John Kerry has emphasized the urgent need to address climate change, suggesting that Africans without electricity should opt for “the right kinds of electricity,” likely referring to green energy production. Kerry made these comments at a speaking event at the Harvard Kennedy School Institute of Politics on November 21, 2024.

Kerry stressed the existence of a “climate emergency” and the necessity for the U.S. to help African countries afford green energy solutions. He highlighted the critical role the U.S., with the largest economy globally, and China, the second-largest, must play in addressing this global challenge. Kerry advocated for declaring a climate emergency and urged people to treat it as a major transitional challenge for the planet.

Kerry’s remarks were met with criticism from some quarters, including Rep. Chip Roy (R-Tx.), who responded with a post on X, saying “Adios comunista” in reaction to Kerry’s comments. This is not the first time Kerry’s climate-related statements have sparked controversy, as he has previously been criticized for his views on the Ukraine war and carbon footprint.

John Kerry has a long and distinguished career in public service, having served as a U.S. Senator from Massachusetts from 1985 to 2013, as the Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee from 2009 to 2013, and as Secretary of State during President Barack Obama‘s administration. He also served as Special Presidential Envoy for Climate under President Joe Biden until March of this year. Recently, Kerry was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Biden.