As climate advocates gather in New York City for “Climate Week,” a mobile billboard has emerged, challenging the relationship between Governor Kathy Hochul and environmental groups. The billboard features images of Hochul in a MAGA-style hat with the phrase “Make Nuclear Great Again.” It emphasizes her recent commitment to building a new nuclear power plant in New York.
The mobile billboard began circulating in New York City on Monday and will continue through Wednesday. It includes a quote from Hochul, who described the proposed plant as “a model of 21st century nuclear design.”
Nuclear energy often faces opposition from environmentalists, who typically favor renewable sources like wind and solar power. The Daily Wire reached out to several environmental organizations, including the Sierra Club and Greenpeace, which have expressed support for Hochul in the past but oppose nuclear energy.
The Sierra Club has stated that it is “unequivocally opposed to nuclear energy” and aims to phase it out quickly. Similarly, the Natural Resources Defense Council has shown skepticism about nuclear power. Both organizations previously praised Hochul for her establishment of a “Climate Superfund,” which they say shifts the financial burden of climate adaptation from residents to fossil fuel companies.
Greenpeace has labeled nuclear energy as “dirty, expensive, and dangerous,” arguing it harms the economy. The group also commended Hochul for her moratorium on crypto mining.
In a related note, former President Donald Trump criticized renewable energy sources during a recent speech at the United Nations. He took executive action in May to modernize nuclear regulations and promote nuclear power. Following his announcement, Hochul directed the New York Power Authority to develop a zero-emission advanced nuclear power plant.
This decision has drawn criticism from some environmentalists, who claim Hochul is adopting Trump’s policies. Public Power NY stated that her choice reflects a lack of seriousness about energy costs and climate issues.
As Hochul campaigns for re-election, her approval ratings have dipped below 50% among New Yorkers, according to recent polls. This mobile billboard and her nuclear energy plans may further complicate her relationship with both environmental groups and voters as she seeks to secure her position.
