A youth movement that was founded less than two years ago and that stages most of its protests by singing has been lobbying on Capitol Hill for the "Green New Deal" — and has become "the dominant influence on the environmental policy" of the young, progressive Democrats, The New Yorker’s Emily Witt writes.
Why it matters: The Green New Deal is an economic and climate plan supported by incoming Democratic congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and about 40 lawmakers. The youth movement, which goes by the name "Sunrise," is one of the reasons the plan is getting so much attention.
Democrats are increasingly embracing a sweeping progressive plan to tackle climate change that includes a massive increase in government programs on everything from job guarantees to health care.
Why it matters: While it's unlikely to become law any time soon, if ever, expect the plan — called the Green New Deal and championed by Rep.-elect Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez — to permeate the next Congress and 2020 presidential campaign. They don't have a fully detailed plan yet — but their main goal, at least for now, is to change the debate.
