Democratic candidates vie for climate mantle during marathon forum

Ten U.S. Democratic presidential contenders will tout their plans to tackle climate change on Wednesday night in a marathon series of CNN forums likely to pit moderates like Joe Biden against progressives like Bernie Sanders and Elizabeth Warren. Republican President Donald Trump rejects mainstream climate science and has reversed Obama-era initiatives meant to curb emissions, promote alternatives to fossil fuels and join the world in fighting the crisis. The climate forum offers Democrats seeking to face Trump in the November 2020 election an opportunity in a crowded presidential field to stand out on an issue increasingly important to voters.