Why Is This Happening? The Chris Hayes Podcast Why Is This Happening? The Chris Hayes Podcast

We Have the Climate Solutions with Dr. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson

Oct 6, 2026 · 52m

Summary

Chris Hayes and Dr. Ayanna Elizabeth Johnson discuss the dual reality of climate change, contrasting record-breaking heat and political backsliding with the unprecedented economic viability of clean energy technology. They analyze how the Iran war has shifted consumer economics, making renewable retrofits more attractive despite the repeal of federal tax credits, and highlight the disconnect between public concern and media coverage. The conversation also addresses the political strategy of "climate hushing," noting that polling shows voters want more discussion on the issue, while explorin…

Topics discussed

Sponsor: SimpliSafe home security Sponsor: Odoo and intro to climate voting Intro: Best of times, worst of times for climate Clean energy tech and economics under Trump Individual costs: Solar, EVs, and IRA Iran war, oil prices, and emissions decline Workforce needs and shifting climate discourse Defining success: What getting it right looks like Media coverage gaps and public awareness Political polarization and climate hushing Energy independence: Fossil fuels vs. clean energy Public lands, data centers, and pushback Sponsor: Taco Bell Crunch Wrap Slider The 11.2 million environmental non-voters Climate trauma and cost of living concerns Political strategy: Denial vs. affordability NYC climate initiatives and policy leadership AI data centers and energy risks Sponsors: Southwest and Monday.com Ocean heat absorption and deep-sea mining Battery recycling and EV environmental impact Ocean currents, coastal ecosystems, and solutions Outro and credits
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