The organization that did so much to help change public opinion and policy on the Iraq War is now getting involved in the energy debate, making the critical connection between our national security and our energy security. From their e-mailed press release announcing the ad campaign:
WASHINGTON, DC – A new, week-long cable television ad campaign starting today shows veterans of the war in Iraq calling on Congress to support a bill that would support clean energy and efficiency. The ad is sponsored by VoteVets.org, the nation’s leading progressive group of veterans, will start running today in the districts of Rep. John Barrow (D-GA) and Jim Matheson (D-UT), airing over 1000 times, combined, on local cable. The group plans to air the ad in more districts by the middle of the week.
The ad features Iraq War Veterans from the state where the ads are airing, making the case that passage of the American Clean Energy and Security Act is a matter of national security. The script for one of the ads is below.
"It’s crucial to our national security that we get off our dependence on foreign oil and towards clean energy," said Jon Soltz, Iraq War Veteran and Chairman of VoteVets.org. "Right now, billions in Middle East oil profits help fund terrorism. Members of Congress have a chance to end that, and create jobs right here by voting for this comprehensive clean energy jobs bill. For those who were sent to fight terrorists and insurgents, like me, this bill is a no brainer. It has to pass."