President Joe Biden’s special envoy on climate, John Kerry, has announced his decision to step down from his position after three years to contribute to President Biden’s re-election campaign.
This move comes a month after Kerry played a pivotal role in facilitating an international agreement in Dubai, where nations worldwide committed to transitioning away from fossil fuels.
The 80-year-old Democrat conveyed his intention to leave to President Biden on Wednesday, with his staff learning about the decision on Saturday. While Kerry is expected to depart later in the winter, the administration has yet to finalize a replacement for his role.
Kerry, a seasoned climate advocate, was appointed by President Biden after the 2020 election. His primary responsibility was to restore American engagement in international climate negotiations, particularly after the US withdrawal from the Paris Agreement during the Trump administration.
Notably, Kerry’s appointment as special envoy on climate change did not require Senate confirmation. He holds a significant position on the National Security Council, marking the first time an official in that role has been specifically dedicated to climate-related issues.
One of Kerry’s key priorities was maintaining close diplomatic ties with China on climate change, even amid broader political and trade tensions between the two nations.
In a December interview after COP28, Kerry expressed uncertainty about his plans but emphasized his unwavering commitment to climate advocacy. He stated that he would continue working on climate-related issues “as long as God gives me the breath.”
The departure of John Kerry raises questions about his successor, and the Biden administration is yet to announce a replacement for this crucial role in advancing global climate initiatives.
