Central WA Congressional candidates on climate: nuclear, hydrogen, agrivoltaics, and grid modernization

The Tri-Cities Citizens Climate Lobby surveyed 11 candidates for Washington's 4th Congressional District on climate policy. Seven participated, revealing a wide range of positions. Republican Jerrod Sessler opposed climate initiatives he says harm liberty and raise costs. Democrat John Duresky pushed for nuclear power and restoring solar and wind incentives. Ken Vaz focused on hydropower, nuclear, and grid modernization without raising costs. Other candidates offered varied approaches. John Hughs advocated for hydrogen combustion, though he did not explain how to produce it. Jack Kobiesa emphasized reducing energy waste and modernizing wastewater treatment. Devon Poore proposed water conservation, agrivoltaics, and wildfire management funding. Favien Valencia supported an all-of-the-above energy strategy including geothermal and storage. Non-participants Matt Boehnke and Amanda McKinney have websites promoting nuclear, hydrogen, and reliable grid investments. The survey also asked candidates to position themselves on ten climate aspects. Duresky, Hughs, and Poore strongly agreed that human-driven global warming threatens well-being, while Sessler strongly disagreed. The full candidate statements are available online.