Republican Rep. Derrick Van Orden criticized Democratic challenger Rebecca Cooke’s endorsement by the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) Action Fund, warning it signals policies that could raise energy costs and harm Wisconsin farmers. The dispute highlights energy costs as a key issue in Wisconsin’s 3rd Congressional District race, which is competitive and could impact House control.
Van Orden Links NRDC Backing to Higher Costs for Farmers
Van Orden accused Cooke of being “out of touch” with Wisconsin’s agricultural community by embracing support from the NRDC Action Fund, which he described as “radical.” He argued the endorsement indicates Cooke would support policies like the Green New Deal that increase the costs of fertilizer and diesel fuel—critical inputs for the state’s farm economy. Van Orden said these policies could lead to expanded solar installations that would cover productive farmland, citing opposition from farmers and businesses in Wisconsin.
Cooke and NRDC Highlight Clean Energy and Economic Benefits
Cooke, who grew up on a dairy farm, emphasized her commitment to environmental stewardship and clean energy development. After receiving the NRDC endorsement, she highlighted the potential for clean energy investments to create jobs and lower costs for working families. Cooke accused Van Orden of poor leadership contributing to rising energy prices and supporting tariffs that have hurt farmers.
Jed Ober, managing director of the NRDC Action Fund, expressed pride in backing Cooke, portraying her as a champion for working families concerned about energy costs. The NRDC Action Fund focuses on climate and conservation issues, including advocating for limits on fossil fuel production and supporting policies like restrictions on hydraulic fracturing.
Energy Policy Debates Intensify in Key Wisconsin District
Republicans argue that policies supported by the NRDC and Democrats could increase energy costs in agricultural states reliant on diesel and natural gas. Fertilizer production’s dependency on natural gas prices makes energy a significant factor for farmers. Conversely, Democrats contend that long-term clean energy investments can support rural economies by generating jobs and reducing utility bills.
While Wisconsin lacks significant hydraulic fracturing activity, it is a leading producer of silica sand used in fracking, linking its economy to energy production trends. The NRDC’s opposition to projects like the Enbridge Line 5 pipeline, which transports oil and gas through the Great Lakes, also factors into local energy debates.
For more stories on this topic, visit our category page.
