This is the twelfth in a series of posts outlining where the 2008 presidential candidates stand on climate and energy issues. The information was culled from resources developed by Courtney Fryxell and the League of Conservation Voters. You can get additional information on the candidates at HeatIsOn.org.
We will be updating this info on a regular basis and I would love to know what you think about these posts and about the candidates. Its clear that the 2008 presidential will be the most important on climate and environmental issues in decades. Your vote can help make the difference in electing a president who will take bold and just action to reduce global warming and one who will continue the status quo.
SENATOR JOHN MCCAIN R-AZ
Website: http://www.johnmccain.com
Hear McCain in his on words:
On alternative energy sources
On ethanol
On fuel efficiency
CARBON CAPS AND TARGETS
McCain is the lead co-sponsor of the Climate Steward Act with Senator Joe Lieberman which would reduce emissions 15% by 2020 and 65% by 2050.
FUEL EFFICIENCY
McCain opposed a 40 mpg standard in 2005 and 2003. He supported a 35 mpg standard in 2002.
RENEWABLE ELECTRICITY STANDARD
McCain opposed a 10% standard in 2005 and 2002. He opposed a 20% standard in 2002.
EFFICIENCY TARGETS
He expressed general support for increased energy efficiency, no target specified.
NEW COAL PLANTS AND LIQUID COAL
McCain has articulated no position yet.
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Is it just me or does it seem like he is entirely unenthusiastic about energy independence and curbing greenhouse gas emissions? For a guy who has repeatedly co-sponsored the Climate Stewardship Act, you think he could summon up a little bit more passion when talking about these issues. The videos are a snoozer…
I don’t like how most of his responses hinge around nuclear power and corn based ethanol -> those clearly aren’t the solutions we will need for a sustainable energy future. I wonder if any of the current presidential candidates truly understands what a sustainable energy future will look like. It’s going to require a complete restructuring of our economy and way of life, and I don’t know if any candidate has enough determination to propose such radical steps.
Please keep in mind that most of McCain’s supporters are pro-nuclear. This may be heretical, but would it be so unsustainable to have a few pebble bed reactors along side compact fluorescents, wind, and solar? I only suggest this as there could be combinations of policies that resolve global warming and obtain the necessary large political coalitions to smooth the process. Perhaps by finding more common ground we can avoid excessive delays, even if the solution does not meet everyone’s individual ideals.