While the first Earth Day, in 1970, took place during the Republican administration of President Richard Nixon, many in the environmental community will use Tuesday’s 55th anniversary to rail against Republican President Donald Trump and push to unite behind renewable energy.

Earlier this month, via executive order, Trump told environmental and energy agencies to sunset an array of regulations that protect endangered species, prevent oil spills and allow the public to track progress on pollution. 

The administration has also promised to “restore American energy dominance,” which may mean drilling in sensitive areas.

Meanwhile, in “blue” New York, the environmental community has had some tough words for Democratic Gov. Kathy Hochul who they argue is stalling on her cap and invest carbon pricing plan. 

On Capital Tonight, chair of the State Senate’s Committee on Environmental Conservation, Pete Harckham, discussed some of his Earth Day priorities, including the NY HEAT Act, as well as the tense dynamic between the state and federal government on climate issues.