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

The Senate passed a key bill yesterday which the New York Times called a “major defeat for car manufacturers”- we call it a victory for the environment.  The bill significantly raises fuel efficiency standards for the first time in twenty years from an average of 25 to 35 miles per gallon by 2020.  It also mandates an increase in the use of bio fuels.  Though it was a step toward reducing carbon emissions, two important proposals were dropped from the bill before its passing:  1) Increased taxation on oil companies that would have created major incentives for research into renewable technologies; and 2) a proposal requiring utility companies to increase their share of power from renewables.

This bill provided the presidential candidates who are now incumbent senators a major opportunity to strengthen their environmental voting record.  A ‘yea’ vote for this bill boosts fuel economy.  This is especially important in New Hampshire, a state where 33.3% of the population commutes to work outside of their resident community, higher than the national average.  (For the complete CEP report click here and go to ’US State Reports’)  That being said, here is how the candidates voted:

• Joe Biden, yea
• Sam Brownback, not voting
• Hillary Clinton, yea
• Chris Dodd, yea
• John McCain, not voting
• Barak Obama, yea

(For a complete voting record click here) 

Though 20 Republicans and 45 Democrats voted in favor, the two Republican Senators running for President did not vote.  We understand the time and energy that is needed to focus on fundraising and the campaign and make no assumptions about the two candidates absent from the vote.  That being said, it would be interesting to hear Senator Brownback and Senator McCain’s position on this issue and the bill.  We urge all of the candidates to clarify their positions on both the fuel efficiency standards and the provisions that failed.  Hopefully this won’t be the last time we see legislation about tax incentives for research and development of renewable energy sources.