Green groups believe timing will make Podesta a WH climate force

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The Hill:

Environmental groups believe John Podesta will be a force for change on climate issues at the White House.

 

The groups argue that for must of Obama’s years in office, an administration that took power at the height of the recession has prioritized helping the economy over other goals.

 

That’s created an uphill climb for advocates pushing the White House to take a tougher line in reducing carbon emissions and cleaning up polluters.

Podesta’s arrival as a White House adviser, which comes as unemployment hits a low point under Obama, is a pivotal moment, activists predict.

“The most significant thing about this partnership is that Podesta will help advocate the idea that you can have economic recovery and growth without sacrificing the environment,” said Elige Holstein, strategic director for the Environmental Defense Fund and a former colleague of Podesta in the Clinton administration.

A veteran Washington hand recruited by White House chief of staff Denis McDonough, Podesta is expected to play a central role helping agencies and departments implement the president's Climate Action Plan, unveiled earlier this year.

“He will advise on a range of issues with a particular focus on issues of energy and climate change,” said White House press secretary Jay Carney.