Political Quotes

“Many of my colleagues on the other side of the aisle have continually reminded us that they are not scientists. We have also heard this from several of the Republican candidates seeking our Nation's highest office. As a scientist myself, I appreciate their candor. But what I don't as much appreciate is when they use this mantra of ``I am not a scientist'' to preface statements that are factually wrong. Facts are stubborn things, and they don't only apply to those in the scientific community. Last week Pope Francis challenged us to take courageous steps to combat climate change, a call to action that made many Republicans uncomfortable. When asked about the Pope's statement, Governor Jeb Bush dismissed it, saying that Pope Francis is ``not a scientist, he's a religious leader.'' In fact, Pope Francis is a former chemist, and, as such, he has more scientific training than many of our elected officials. I was hoping that, when the Pope addressed Congress in his remarks, he would have explained to my Republican colleagues the effect of the infrared absorption spectrum of carbon dioxide on the radiation balance and equilibrium temperature of the Earth, but time did not permit. I encourage Jeb and my colleagues in Congress to consider the Pope's call to preserve our environment. ____________________”