SPA Faculty Dr. Katya Rhodes and Dr. Joakim Kulin's new op-ed in DeSmog
April 22, 2026
Despite Trump Actions, the Most Dangerous Climate Argument Today Isn’t Denial — It’s Delay
SPA Faculty Dr. Katya Rhodes and Dr. Joakim Kulin's new op-ed in DeSmog claims that while climate change denial lingers, public opinion adheres to subtler delay techniques, explaining the paradox where 70%+ accept climate reality, yet policy stalls.
Using a survey of U.S. citizens, they found that delay narratives of whataboutism (why act if China doesn't), no sticks, just carrots (subsidies OK, but no taxes/regulations), and fairness fears erode policy support; yet tech optimism and individual responsibility views actually boost it.
Katya and Joakim propose solutions to reframe narratives highlighting benefits over sacrifice; counter whataboutism with energy security gains; design just transitions policies while calling out bad-faith fairness claims; amplify pro-policy stories tying individual/voluntary action to government support.