There is ideological diversity within the democratic party, especially at the local level. As part of a representative democracy, the electorate needs to be engaged with their representatives. You should start looking closely at your most local representatives.
It sounds like you might have misunderstood them. To me, it’s sounds like they are telling you to just BIKE. I’d suggest a used bike from a reputable manufacturer, in my city that will set ya back about 200, less than you’d pay for JUST insurance. On a simple bike like this any problem you might experience will be easily diagnosable and self fixable or you can go to a shop and pay a little extra. If you live in an area where things are far apart you might want to look into an e bike, those range from about 1k or more. They can go from 20-30mph and should be treated more seriously as you ride as on a regular bike you will probably only achieve 10-15mph averages. That will have the negative tradeoff of being harder to work on, more expensive, and perhaps frowned upon by “sport” cyclists. Check out this resource for more safety information.
They also acquired and still run the business previously done by Monsanto known for things like agent orange and eliminating corn biodiversity. Their legal department is also infamous for bankrupting small farmers.
Automobiles. Especially in the USA they are causing a public health crisis, environmental crisis, qualify of life crisis. I grew up loving them and they have uses but I’m fully convinced in the future they should be a luxury used for specific tasks or trips rather than the only form of transportation available.
Loved this stuff back in the day as well. I still do. I got to see Slipknot live at a festival a few years back and they put on one of the more impressive shows I’ve seen.
I’m optimistic about my city. It’s not perfect but we’ve had substantial political victories recently, growing demand as well as some investment in better cycling / public transit infrastructure, and great existing amenities. We have a ton of diversity and affordable neighborhoods.
I’m conflicted on Airbnb. Their product really is superior to corporate hotel chains and they’ve opened up areas previously unserved by traditional hotels. In my city corporate landlords, foreign investors, and disinvestment in public housing seem to be much bigger problems than Airbnb.
I agree with a lot of people that suggest voting and holding your representatives accountable and the mass pollutors responsible will be the most important part but I also think there’s no reason not to lead by example in this situation. Reduce your carbon usage when you can by buying fewer consumer goods, eating less meat, avoiding single use products, and more frequently using public transportation, walking and cycling to get around.