The Political Climate: an ongoing commentary on the NH Primary and Climate Change

In the last few weeks criticism about Mitt Romney has ranged from his religion to his “too perfect” hair.  Hopefully to most voters some of these issues will weigh heavier than others, and to TPC one such issue tips the scale.  Someone needs to send Romney the memo that global warming is a non-partisan issue–it’s moral, global and affects us all, not just one political party.  Last month he criticized fellow Republicans for “embracing the radical environmental ideas of the liberal left.”  Again, someone should inform Romney that these “ideas” are actually coming from a majority of renowned scientists and organizations worldwide.  Romney continued “Republicans should never abandon pro-growth conservative principles in an effort to embrace the ideas of Al Gore.” Romney’s spokesperson said that he is all for reducing our dependence on foreign oil and creating incentives for renawbles and energy conservation but “is not sure how much” human activity is contributing to climate change.  Romney, your hair can be fixed, but until you acknowledge the threat of global warming (and we want to hear you say it) the majority of voters (according to this recent poll) will definitely hold it against you.  (Read the entire story here.)

Sen. John Edwards seems to have the opposite problem as Romney these days.  Yesterday he announced an energy plan to “halt global warming and create a new energy economy.”  Edwards is giving specifics: reducing emissions with a cap-and-trade system by 15% by 2020 and 80% by 2050, leading the world to a new climate treaty, creating an energy fund, and meeting the increasing electricity demand through efficiency.  He’s also put his money where his mouth is by pledging to have a carbon neutral campaign.  But let’s be honest, this YouTube video of Edwards primping before a candidate event creates some serious concern–between prepping and talking will he have any extra time to address these issues?

Nothing in The Political Climate or Carbon Coalition communications is meant to imply an endorsement of any candidate or political party.