Protecting the environment is more than a photo op
By JIM DIPESO, REP’s Policy Director
AN HISTORICAL DOCUMENT: Letter to the editor, Seattle Post-Intelligencer, published July 8, 2001
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True conservatives who value conservation are saddened but not surprised by President Bush’s sinking poll ratings, as reported by columnist Bob Herbert in his Thursday column.
The administration’s environmental miscues have alienated many voters who should be his natural supporters, especially those in suburbs who often hold the keys to victory on election night.
The president’s visits to national parks won’t overcome a muddy record that adds up to bad policy and worse politics.
No wonder Republicans in the House are breaking ranks to vote against drilling for oil off Florida’s coast and in the Great Lakes, and to vote for protecting our national monuments.
It’s time for President Bush to start anew on the environment. Photo ops and happy talk won’t do. Only genuine conservation policies that will earn the public’s support.