Dear Renee,
Could you tell me about the environmental records of some of our candidates in this year’s election?
Thank you!
Anonymous
Dear Anonymous,
If there’s one thing most politicians don’t understand, it’s that economy starts with ECO! Sure, making decisions that will support our economy will help us in the next 2-5 years, but what about our long-term future? I guess I’ll need all that money to buy a fancy air mask to breathe our polluted air – but imagine all the new jobs created at the air mask factory!
I’ll be the first to admit that I’m not the most politically inclined gal around. Here are some resources and a summary of my findings on the upcoming election:
Governor
Boneham – While Rupert doesn’t have a record on environmental issues, nor does his web site offer a position, I did learn at the Hoosier Environmental Council Lt. Governor Debate that Boneham’s running mate, Brad Klopfenstein: opposes PACE bonds (low interest loans from the State for citizens to invest in renewable energy); only supports mass transit if it passes with 100% of the vote; supports statewide complete streets; supports nuclear energy.
Gregg – Specific positions on environmental issues are hard to find; however, while he supports investing in renewable energy, he also supports burning coal. Gregg’s running mate, Vi Simpson, has a long-standing positive record on environmental issues in the IN State Senate, shared that a Gregg/Simpson administration: opposes nuclear; supports dedicated funding for land trusts; supports funding for soil and water districts; supports complete streets.
Pence – This outline of Pence’s position on environmental issues pretty much sums it up. Highlight: Pence co-sponsored the Superfund Common Sense Act, basically saying that manure is NOT a hazardous pollutant. Ew. He does not support any type of energy regulation or clean energy, has a record of opposing CO2 limits, renewable energy tax credits, tax incentives for renewable energy and energy conservation, and homegrown biofuel. On the other hand, he supports pushing the Environmental Protection Agency out of regulating our air quality. And oil, lots and lots of oil. Pence’s running mate opted not to participate in the HEC Lt. Governor Debate.
Senate
Donnelly – His history on environmental issues seems promising, but his position on energy issues is inconsistent. It appears that he supports renewable energy, but hasn’t made great decisions regarding greenhouse gases and CO2.
Horning – As far as I can tell, Horning doesn’t believe that politics should be involved in our energy choices. He opposes tax credits for renewable energy and any mandates in the energy sector.
Mourdock – Hmmm…“No stance on record” in regard to environmental issues and he opposes the use of ethanol.
Obviously this is only two of many important decisions to be made on November 6. Read the Sierra Club, Hoosier Chapter’s political endorsements and HEC’s green-minded legislators for more information about other candidates.
Feel free to write me in. My environmental position: I think high gas prices are exactly what this city, state and country need to help reduce our dependence on oil. I’m Renee and I approve this message.
Piece out,
Renee
Special thanks to my friends, Ryan and Julie, for helping me out with this one! Register by October 31 for an early bird discount to the HEC Greening the Statehouse Forum.
