Clinton, Obama, McCain – Europe’s Best Hope for Fighting Climate Change

With Barack Obama, John McCain or Hillary Clinton becoming President of the United States, there is hope that the USA could adopt bold legislation to fight global warming in 2009. Albeit with differences, all three have backed serious legislative proposals and indicated their desire to engage actively in international negotiations.

However, beyond campaign platforms and rhetoric, which of the three contenders offers the best climate change credentials for Europe?

What support is the future President likely to receive to implement climate change legislation on par with Europe’s ambitions?

What should the EU and national governments do now to maximize the chances of forging a transatlantic consensus and shaping jointly an international climate treaty in 2009?