Trump vows ‘day one’ executive order targeting offshore wind development

“The fundamental value proposition of offshore wind remains clear: Safe, reliable, large-scale renewable energy production, good-paying union jobs, and significant public health and economic benefits.”

Donald Trump vowed to issue an executive order targeting offshore wind development if he wins a second term as president, making his most explicit threat yet toward the growing industry.

The presumptive Republican nominee derided offshore wind projects as lethal for birds and whales during his oceanfront rally Saturday in Wildwood, New Jersey, and committed to take action.

“We are going to make sure that that ends on day one,” he said. “I’m going to write it out in an executive order.”

While Trump has made no secret of his animus toward wind power, he had adopted a mostly handsoff posture during his first term in the White House. The remarks in New Jersey suggest he may take a more aggressive stance if given a second.

While Trump wasn’t or entanglements. There is no evidence linking offshore wind development to whale deaths, though government scientists have raised concerns about the consequences of greater noise, more vessel traffic and habitat changes tied to the industry.

Offshore wind advocates say Trump would be better off embracing a new source of American-made energy.

“The fundamental value proposition of offshore wind remains clear: Safe, reliable, large-scale renewable energy production, goodpaying union jobs, and significant public health and economic benefits,” said Paulina O’connor, executive director of the New Jersey Offshore Wind Alliance. “By capitalizing on this emerging

American industry, we remain in prime position to maximize the benefits of offshore wind for decades to come through U.s.based jobs, manufacturing and investment.”