What these candidates have to say about science

We know where the candidates stand on fiscal issues, immigration and gun control … but what about science?

A consortium of experts has put together a 20 point questionnaire that ranges from climate change to mental health, and all four of the major candidates have now submitted their responses.

On climate change, the answers range from Republican Donald Trump, who doesn’t think people are really the problem, to Democrat Hillary Clinton who sees climate as one of the biggest issues of this generation.

Independent Jill Stein says it’s “the greatest existential threat that humanity has ever faced.” She proposes a Green New Deal which would allocate emergency funding to create jobs that would help the nation transition to a green economy.

Libertarian Gary Johnson agrees that both the economy and climate change could benefit by America going green, but he says it should happen as a result of a free market. For example, he proposes a carbon tax that would make people want to choose renewable energy over oil or coal.

The candidates are also asked about how they would keep the internet safe, while ensuring personal freedom.

Clinton says she would empower the new Chief Information Security Officer, a post recently created by President Obama. Cyber attacks should be treated like any other invasion, according to Clinton, and would be ready with “serious political, economic and military responses.”

Trump’s response on this issue is pretty short. He says the US should not spy on its own citizens, but there should be a proportional response to any threats online.

Johnson also thinks the government shouldn’t be in the spying game. He proposes more outside involvement from technology companies and more education for people who work and play online.

Stein wants to maintain net neutrality, she supports a public broadband network and she wants to negotiate an international treaty banning cyberwarfare.

Now, the interesting thing that jumps out at me is the length of their answers. In general, Clinton seems to have the longest and most specific responses. Johnson and Stein vary depending on the topic. While Trump sticks with a single paragraph each time.

The topic of mental health care is a perfect example.

Clinton has a long explanation with lots of data points about why it’s an important issue. She then goes on to explain her plan to address the problem.

Trump agrees it is a major problem and needs a comprehensive plan, but stops short of saying what that plan might be.

With 20 questions in all, the forum is pretty comprehensive. You can check it out at sciencedebate.org.