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Europe May Never Be Cool, but It Can Be Air Conditioned

The continent’s political class needs to get over its aversion to life-saving technology.

J.D. Tuccille | 7.6.2026 7:00 AM

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(Illustration: Lionel Guericolas/ZUMAPRESS/Newscom/Midjourney)

If you really want to get a European politician wound up, try suggesting that, in the 21st century, human civilization has progressed to the point that we need not be at the mercy of the elements; if the temperature outside is uncomfortable, we can adjust the climate in our homes and businesses to our taste. That will get you a stuffy lecture about the virtues of suffering for the good of the planet. Well, unless powerful people are being inconvenienced; then the air conditioning comes on.

You are reading The Rattler from J.D. Tuccille and Reason. Get more of J.D.'s commentary on government overreach and threats to everyday liberty.

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Stuffy Politicians vs. Cool Indoor Air

"I'm horrified by the people who tell me you can put air conditioning everywhere. You think it will avoid forest fires?" France's Minister of Ecological Transition Monique Barbut huffed in June, even as temperatures soared and the World Health Organization (WHO) reported more than 1,300 deaths in Europe just since June 21 because of high temperatures. After conceding the need for emergency leniency to permit the use of cooling technology, she complained, "It is not adaptation to climate change."

Reports noted that Barbut swapped out train for airline tickets to avoid heat-related disruptions.

Paris Deputy Mayor Audrey Pulvar was even more Frenchly snotty.

"Dear American journalists and social media 'influencers': for........

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