In an appearance at the Iowa State Fair, GOP presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy voiced strong opposition to environmental, social, and corporate governance (ESG) business policies, describing them as “grave threats to liberty.” Speaking during a fireside chat with Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds, Ramaswamy argued that these policies are being used to advance social and environmental agendas through corporate America.
ESG as a Political Punching Bag
Ramaswamy specifically criticized the use of retirement funds and investment accounts to support initiatives such as racial equity audits and emissions caps. He claimed that such policies are implemented without the knowledge and approval of the public or Congress. ESG has become a divisive issue, with conservatives viewing it as an overreach by corporations into the political space. These policies aim to promote diverse hiring practices, reduce carbon emissions, and consider climate change in investment decisions.
Ramaswamy’s Stance on Climate Change
The GOP candidate went on to assert that he believes most of the climate change agenda is a hoax. He categorized the public’s stance on climate change as a matter that should be settled through open debate and discourse in a constitutional republic.
Democratic Criticism
Ramaswamy’s criticism of ESG policies aligns with conservative views, but it has drawn backlash from Democrats who view it as a misguided campaign. Rep. Katie Porter (D-Calif.) dubbed a House hearing on the issue as the “stupidest hearing” she had ever attended.
Ramaswamy’s Growing Campaign
Ramaswamy’s campaign has gained momentum in recent months, propelling him to third place in national polling averages. He surpassed former Vice President Mike Pence last month and currently holds about 7 percent support in recent polls. A biotech entrepreneur from Ohio, Ramaswamy’s outspoken criticism of ESG policies has resonated with conservative voters.
According to a report by Thehill.com
According to a report by Thehill.com, GOP candidate Vivek Ramaswamy criticized environmental, social, and corporate governance (ESG) business policies during an appearance at the Iowa State Fair. He labeled these policies as threats to liberty and referred to the climate change agenda as a hoax. Ramaswamy argued that these policies are being implemented without public knowledge or approval, utilizing retirement funds and investment accounts to support social and environmental agendas through corporate America. While his stance has garnered support from conservatives, it has drawn criticism from Democrats who view it as a misguided campaign.
Key Takeaway:
– GOP presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy strongly opposes environmental, social, and corporate governance (ESG) business policies, considering them as threats to liberty.
– Ramaswamy claims that retirement funds and investment accounts are being used to support social and environmental initiatives without public knowledge or approval.
– ESG policies have become a political point of contention, with conservatives viewing them as an overreach by corporations into politics.
– Ramaswamy believes that the majority of the climate change agenda is a hoax and advocates for settling the debate through open discourse.
– Ramaswamy’s campaign has gained traction, placing him third in national polling averages and attracting support from conservative voters.
Credit: thehill.com
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