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Climate Cast ®
Paul Huttner

This 100-year-old ‘small-government conservative’ wants lawmakers to go big on climate

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Tom Swain has seen a lot in his 100 years on planet Earth. He’s been an insurance executive, a city mayor and headed a state agency.

But in his 80s, when most octogenarians might be enjoying quiet years, Swain began a quest to increase climate change awareness. And now, to mark his 100th birthday, he’s asking well-wishers to make a personal climate pledge. He’s also working with the University of Minnesota to launch the Swain Climate Policy Series of lectures.

Why does this self-described ‘small-government conservative’ so actively pursue climate change solutions?

He spoke with MPR News Chief Meteorologist and Climate Cast Host Paul Huttner about it.

Use the audio player above or subscribe to the Climate Cast podcast to hear their conversation.