The League of Conservation Voters, the independent voice for the environment, today announced the endorsement of Mark Schauer in the election for Michigan's Seventh District.
"State Sen. Mark Schauer believes in a science-based, not lobbyist-swayed, approach to global warming,” LCV representative and Michigan native Kerry Duggan said. “He knows that clean energy technologies and higher efficiency standards will be an economic boon to the state, which has excellent potential for wind-power development."
“Here in Michigan there is a growing recognition about the potential ripple effect of the benefits of pursuing innovative energy ideas," Schauer explained. "We know that increasing renewable energy generation will generate good jobs, provide another source of income for our farmers, help keep energy affordable, and fight global warming."
"Schauer has shown impressive leadership protecting Michigan's natural resources," Duggan added. "As Senate Minority Leader, he sponsored Bill 724 to protect the Great Lakes, which sustain Michigan's livelihood and contain over twenty percent of the world's fresh water. In Congress, Sen. Schauer will oppose drilling in the Lakes, large water withdrawals, and bottled water companies siphoning our water without regulation."
Schauer's dedication to sound environmental policies is evident in his high Michigan League of Conservation scores; in his past two terms he has earned 100%.
In stark contrast, first-term incumbent Rep. Walberg (R) opposed every major clean energy reform in Congress last year, earning a 5% score for 2007. Rep. Walberg voted against repealing tax breaks to Big Oil, protecting Michigan's coastlines from unnecessary drilling, and conserving the state's water and air quality. Walberg's 5% score in 2007 was a sharp drop from that of his predecessor, Republican Rep. Joe Schwarz, who earned a 58% in 2006.
Just in time for Earth Day, congratulations Senator Schauer!