Issue Position: Energy and the Environment

Issue Position

Climate Change

There is no denying that human behavior is directly correlated to climate change. Carbon dioxide levels have increased dramatically since the Industrial Revolution. This trend is unsustainable and we must look to alternative sources of energy if we are to protect our environment. Natural gas, if procured safely, and renewables offer a clear path to a more sustainable future.

Developing a national "Made-in-America" energy policy

The people of Maine spend too much of their hard-earned income on energy costs. For too long the US has not had a comprehensive energy policy, energy conservation, energy efficiency, and domestic energy production will lead to a realistic American energy policy. A "Made-in-America" policy will create jobs and keep our energy dollars from going to places like the Middle East. In the near term, our "Made-in-America" energy policy will be a combination of increased efficiency, smarter use of fuels, and increased domestic production of oil, gas, and renewables. We need a comprehensive, forward-thinking policy that focuses on low-cost energy, that is made in America, keeps our dollars in America, and minimizes long-term adverse environmental consequences.

Protecting our natural environment

I am committed to protecting the integrity of Maine's natural environment and that of the Nation - and to providing access to it. People love Maine because of its natural beauty and protecting our environment is not only the right thing to do, it's also smart business. I support strong enforcement of the Clean Air Act and Clean Water Act, two laws crafted by Maine Senator Ed Muskie, and I also support carbon-reduction initiatives and increased vehicle fuel efficiency standards. I oppose drilling in ANWR - it has a relatively small supply of oil that would come at great environmental risk to extract. Further, any new developments in the energy industry - like fracking for natural gas, and running the Keystone Pipeline through the U.S., should be subject to all appropriate environmental safeguards to protect the American people and the American land.

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