Dakota Access pipeline fight continue

 

The battle over pipelines like the Dakota Access pipeline (DAPL) and Keystone XL has become a significant issue, especially in the context of the 2020 Democratic presidential primaries. Here's a summary of the key points:

1. Standing Rock Sioux's Renewed Opposition: The Standing Rock Sioux tribe is continuing its fight against the Dakota Access oil pipeline, which they argue poses environmental threats and disregards their concerns. They have filed a motion in federal court challenging the flawed environmental assessment of the pipeline's impacts and calling for a pause in construction.

2. Democratic Presidential Contenders' Opposition: Several Democratic presidential candidates, including Senators Elizabeth Warren and Bernie Sanders, have voiced their opposition to fossil fuel projects like DAPL and Keystone XL. Warren, in particular, has signed the "NoKXL pledge," which opposes these projects and commits to their opposition.

3. Political Significance: Pipeline projects have become politically significant, with Democrats increasingly aligning themselves against such projects as part of their climate and environmental platforms. These issues are gaining traction with voters, especially as climate change becomes a top concern for many Americans.

4. Native American Involvement: Pipeline projects often impact indigenous communities disproportionately, as they frequently traverse tribal lands and threaten sacred sites and water sources. Democratic candidates are recognizing the importance of aligning with Native American communities, both in terms of environmental justice and as a potential voting base.

5. Presidential Forum on Native American Issues: A presidential forum focusing exclusively on Native American issues is scheduled, where candidates will address topics like pipelines and climate concerns. This highlights the increasing attention being paid to indigenous issues in the political arena.

6. Warren's Stance on Indigenous Rights: Warren has emphasized her commitment to indigenous rights and environmental justice, framing her opposition to pipeline projects within this context. She pledges that energy projects impacting Native American communities will not proceed without their consent if she becomes president.

Overall, the battle over pipelines like DAPL and Keystone XL is not only about environmental concerns but also about political positioning and support from key voting demographics, including indigenous communities and environmentally-conscious voters.