On the recordAugust 2, 2010
I rise today to speak on behalf of Rhode Islanders who are fed up with our inaction to address climate change and to reform our Nation's energy policy. In the media and in this very Chamber, we have all seen the tactics of deception and delay intended to convince the American public that the overwhelming body of climate science is inconclusive, that there is some doubt about whether our planet is experiencing unnatural changes in its climate. They argue that the American people are not concerned about warming temperatures, rising sea levels, and shrinking glaciers. They imply that business as usual is our best option, that job-creating, clean energy technologies built right here in America aren't worth the trouble or the investment. These voices of deception and delay are simply wrong. During my time representing Rhode Island in the Senate, I have received thousands of letters and phone calls urging that this Chamber take bold action to price carbon and create clean energy jobs that will fuel our economy for generations to come. Contrary to what detractors would have us think, the vast majority of my constituents know that continuing to fiddle as the world warms is irresponsible, dangerous, and harmful to our Nation's interests.
