This is the second post in a multi-part series focusing on the proposals by the U.S. presidential candidates on climate change.

Candidates for the Republican nomination vary widely in their positions on climate change and regulation, some expressing support for a cap-and-trade regime, others expressing skepticism about such a plan, worrying about its effect on the economy and jobs. Like the Democrats, the Republican candidates frequently cite national security concerns in discussing oil imports and measures to facilitate U.S. energy independence.

Former Mayor Rudy Giuliani (R-NY): Giuliani has taken a wait and see approach on climate change, acknowledging “warming” is occurring but not supporting a particular solution. He made clear in a CNBC interview that he favors promoting low carbon alternative energy, such as nuclear power and bio-fuels, rather than regulating or taxing carbon emissions. Giuliani said that, as president, he would also create a new program called EnergyStat to track progress on energy independence and climate change.

Former Gov. Mitt Romney (R-MA): As Governor, Romney declined to join the Northeast Regional Compact, a cap-and-trade regime for northeastern states, but did offer a Climate Protection Plan requiring state agencies and large businesses to reduce emissions. As he described at a town hall meeting in Iowa, he supports “no regrets” policies that bring energy independence and also reduce carbon emissions, such as nuclear power and new technologies like coal-to-liquid and carbon sequestration. Romney has said he does not support carbon caps that are not global.

Sen. John McCain (R-AZ): McCain is an advocate of a cap-and-trade system, and cosponsored the previous versions of the Lieberman-Warner bill with Sen. Lieberman. McCain has said he opposes new taxes and regulations on business, and favors competitive development of technology, allowing the market to decide the best way to reduce emissions rather than the government. Highlighting his difference with other candidates, McCain has also aired radio ads in New Hampshire highlighting his position on the issue.

Former Gov. Mike Huckabee (R-AR): Similar to McCain, Huckabee has called for action on climate change and favors a cap-and-trade system. He has called carbon regulation a moral issue, and said he favors development of alternative and renewable energy sources. As he explained in New Hampshire, he wants to change the economy of energy by increasing green government purchasing and changing the tax system to push renewable energy.

Former Sen. Fred Thompson (R-TN): Taking a more cautious approach, Thompson has said he supports steps to regulate climate change without harming the economy. He has not released specific plans about regulating carbon, but he has expressed support for research into alternative technologies that reduce carbon dioxide. He strongly favors nuclear power and opposes tax increases.

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