One undeniably positive thing we can do here is support Democrats who do the right thing. Think Progress's Wonk Room has a list of six deserving House members, each of who voted for the 2009 American Clean Energy and Security Act, which would have established cap-and-trade regulation of carbon dioxide emissions. Now each faces a tough race for re-election against a climate zombie who opposes limits on CO2.
The deserving ones are (percentage is likelihood of GOP win):
86%) VA-5 Tom Perriello [v Robert Hurt]
(84%) MD-1 Frank Kratovil [v Andy Harris]
(72%) CO-4 Betsy Markey [v Cory Gardner]
(67%) NY-19 John Hall [v Nan Hayworth]
(63%) PA-11 Paul Kanjorski [v Lou Barletta]
(61%) NH-1 Carol Shea-Porter [v Frank Guinta]
These representatives, though they may have disappointed on other issues, deserve support for showing courage and doing the right thing on climate. Most of them are newly elected (2006 or 2008), holding seats that in the recent past have been GOP. But we won those seats, we wanted people who show a spine, and these guys did. Now we should have their back.
Read the full article for details on each race.
Their opponents offer the classic GOP zombie/denier mush. Here's Cory Gardner (C0-4):
"I think the climate is changing, but I don’t believe humans are causing that change to the extent that’s been in the news.
or how about some Nancy Hayworth (NY-19):
Recent controversies regarding the scientific evidence of global warming indicate that we must regard any claims with skepticism, which is what true scientists are supposed to do.
Aren't they just precious - the way they repeat those cute little Koch-approved talking points?
Our country's inaction on this issue is cowardly and unforgivable. I don't know what else to do about it, so I'm going to go knock on doors for John Hall. Maybe the crazy weather we've been having might have gotten some people's attention.
And, oh yeah, the bill they voted on died in the senate. Hopefully someone does something about that next time, if the Dems come out of this with majorities intact.
Take care, you all.