Blumenthal & McMahon – The Issues – Part V– Energy & Environment

This is the fifth in a series of postings on the policy proposal of the two major Senatorial candidates, Attorney General Richard Blumenthal and former WWE Executive Linda McMahon.

The fifth topic is Energy and Environment. Since “Senator” Blumenthal was first last time, “Senator” McMahon leads off this fifth part of the series. In both presentations, I have cut out some of the background and only left in the action statements.

“Senator” Linda McMahon
“I oppose cap-and-trade because it will increase energy costs and Connecticut already pays the highest electricity rates in the continental U.S.”
I support efforts to develop and expand alternatives and renewable forms of energy including solar, wind, hydro, nuclear and natural gas. I believe dependence on foreign oil supplies is unsustainable in the long-term, and I believe it creates national security risks. I support environmentally responsible domestic oil exploration offshore, but I believe states should decide whether to allow drilling in their waters.
I oppose cap-and-trade legislation because it will increase energy costs and Connecticut already pays the highest electricity rates in the continental U.S.

“Senator” Richard Blumenthal
BUILDING GREEN MANUFACTURING
Promoting Investments in Clean Energy Technology I support increasing our investment in clean-energy technologies, which will help create as many as 2.5 million new jobs, boost the economy, and improve the environment
Investing in Domestic Clean Energy Manufacturing and Environmental Sustainability. I strongly support proposals like the Investments for Manufacturing Progress and Clean Technology ("IMPACT") Act. The act would help small and medium sized local manufacturers by providing loans to improve their facilities and expand clean energy product production.
Establish Clean Energy Business Zones. Establishing Clean Energy Business Zones (CBiZ) will help our businesses and manufacturers transition from fossil fuels to clean energy. Businesses in newly established Clean Energy Business Zones would receive up to $1.2 billion per year in tax credits, grants and loan guarantees for companies in the clean energy sector or for companies that move to greater energy efficiency.
IMPROVING ENERGY EFFICIENCY
Creating Incentives for Residential Efficiency Retrofitting. I support the Home Star Energy Retrofit Act (or "Cash for Caulkers") program which will combine financial incentives and uniform federal energy efficiency standards to dramatically extend efforts to improve residential energy efficiency.
Establishing Cash for Commercial Clunkers. Old, inefficient “heavy-load vehicles” are major gas guzzlers and polluters. I believe we should establish a program that would pay up to $65,000 per vehicle to get old diesel trucks off the road and replace them with natural gas and alternative fuel vehicles while spurring job-creating demand for vehicles and fueling stations.
Curbing Pollution. As your U.S. Senator, I will listen to ideas from anyone, regardless of party, on how to bring the financial costs, environmental destruction and adverse health consequences caused by polluters under control.

PROTECTING THE SOUND.
• In the U.S. Senate, I will push to hold big energy companies accountable for the potential consequences of their activities, and ensure that further energy development occurs in a responsible manner. I have also joined with Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro, local officials and environmental advocates to ask Congress to do more to protect Long Island Sound.
• As your U.S. Senator, I will remain a fighter standing up to any special interest or effort that would put the Sound at risk. Clear action is needed, especially to confront the cause and consequences of the Gulf oil spill this past spring.
• As Senator, I will continue to fight to make Connecticut a leader in clean energy technologies and the jobs they provide, while ensuring our environment and shores remain safe for Connecticut families.
• As your U.S. Senator, I will work to promote the green economy of the 21st century while simultaneously protecting and preserving Connecticut’s environment for generations to come.

Comments
“Senator” McMahon has a narrow energy and environment policy. She is against ‘Cap and Trade” and in favor of off shore drilling if the state agrees. She also supports “alternative energy” projects. “Senator” Blumenthal has a well developed energy and environmental program that attempts to balance environmental concerns with sustainable energy. Which program suits your stand on energy and the environment?