Political impact of Hurricane Sandy

Many scientists say warming oceans and greater atmospheric moisture are adding to the intensity of storms while rising sea levels are making coastal impacts worse.

[1] Dr. Klaus Jacob of Columbia University, who contributed to the Responding to Climate Change in New York "ClimAID" report, explained the increasing risks.

"[2] In response to scientific concerns, Rep. Henry Waxman (D-Calif.), the top Democrat of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, requested a hearing in the lame duck session on links between climate change and Hurricane Sandy, writing along with Rep. Bobby Rush (D-Ill.): "Hurricane Sandy is exactly the type of extreme weather event that climate scientists have said will become more frequent and more severe if we fail to reduce our carbon pollution.

As reported by the Christian Science Monitor, "The day after hurricane Sandy hit the eastern United States, to devastating effect, a political debate is raging over whether Republican presidential nominee Mitt Romney suggested last year the elimination of the Federal Emergency Management Agency, or FEMA.

"[5] Two days later,[6] on Wednesday, October 31, Governor Romney's campaign released a statement on his behalf which said: "I believe that FEMA plays a key role in working with states and localities to prepare for and respond to natural disasters... As president, I will ensure FEMA has the funding it needs to fulfill its mission, while directing maximum resources to the first responders who work tirelessly to help those in need, because states and localities are in the best position to get aid to the individuals and communities affected by natural disasters", but he did not explain what other federal programs would have to be cut from his proposed budget in order to pay for it.

[10] The piece argued that FEMA was needed in natural disasters and alleged that statements by Mitt Romney might be taken as supporting cuts to the agency.

[18][19] New York City mayor Michael Bloomberg endorsed the President, citing Obama's reactions to the storm and his belief that action needs to be taken on climate change as reasons why.

[27] The Economist explained: "In this case, the weather is supposed to clear up well ahead of election day, but the impact could be felt in the turnout of early voters.