Track the debate and take action >>>
House lawmakers are now on the record about climate legislation, but senators still haven’t been pinned down. As the Senate begins deliberation on climate legislation, help Grist find out how senators will vote. Send a message like this one to your two U.S. senators, then post their replies below in comments or email them to us.
Dear Sen. __________:
I am writing to learn more about your views on the important issue of global climate change.
In 2005, the National Academy of Sciences and 10 other science academies issued a statement that “the scientific understanding of climate change is now sufficiently clear to justify nations taking cost-effective steps that will contribute to substantial and long-term reduction in net global greenhouse gas emissions.” The Academy also stated that the planet as a whole is warming, and that the burning of fossil fuels is directly tied to changes in atmospheric chemistry and rising surface temperatures.
Do you agree with National Academy’s finding and, more broadly, the international scientific community’s consensus view that climate change is primarily driven by human activities?
On June 26, the House of Representatives approved the American Clean Energy and Security Act. If identical legislation comes before the Senate, would you support or oppose it? What principles will guide your decision to vote for or against such a bill?
Will you encourage President Obama to ensure that the United States plays a leading role in the next round of global climate talks, scheduled for December in Copenhagen? And do you believe the United States should join other nations in an international treaty that sets firm caps on emissions of global warming gases?
Thank you in advance to your answers. Climate policy is a complex topic that demands thoughtful consideration by leaders like yourself.
Sincerely, …
Here’s a list of senators by state.
