Elizabeth Warren Proposes Bill to Protect Zimbabwe’s Big Five

On January 12th, 2020, Massachusetts Senator and Democratic presidential candidate Elizabeth Warren proposed an unprecedented bill to protect Zimbabwe’s Big Five animals. Under the proposed legislation, the United States would fund and donate comprehensive digital tracking systems to monitor the movements and well-being of the elephant, lion, leopard, African buffalo, and rhino populations in the southern African country.

“The welfare of these majestic creatures is indeed a conception that extends beyond the conventional borders. The United States stands to lead the globe in this noble cause,” said Warren.

Warren’s strategy is to regulate U.S. businesses involved in the haulage of trophy hunting exports. The Big Five Bill, as it is already being called, is one of the most audacious wildlife conservation acts ever proposed in Congress’ history.

“We have countless number of tech companies here in the Silicon Valley that can benefit from these initiatives. It’s not only about saving animals, but also about creating American jobs,” Warren expanded.

However, the proposed bill already faces fierce opposition, especially from some Republicans suggesting that it interferes with Zimbabwe’s sovereignty and that it is a misguided exercise of American exceptionalism.

Critics also argue that resources being directed to Zimbabwe’s wildlife should first address human crises in the country and across Africa.

However, the bill has popular support in activist circles. Peter Singer, an influential ethicist, called it “an ambitious attempt to recognize the rights and value of non-human life.”

The bill is pending and it remains to be seen if it will get passed in the Republican-dominated Senate. Still, some view it as an indicator of Warren’s progressive approach to international affairs and her wide-ranging vision for a more responsible America.

* None of the quotes in this article were spoken by an actual person. More info.