Published: 8/23/2019 12:01:26 AM
Modified: 8/23/2019 12:01:14 AM
A nonpartisan centrist policy group called No Labels is trying to reduce the partisan bitterness in our politics and come up with sensible solutions for our most serious problems. In reading through some of their materials, I was particularly struck by their proposed solution for climate change: large increases in federal research for energy efficiency and new energy technologies, and a steadily increasing carbon tax with most of the revenues returned as taxpayer dividends. This would harness market forces to drive investments rather than relying on government micromanaging every aspect of the economy.
The No Labels climate solution is remarkably similar to Kirsten Gillibrand’s proposals. I believe that Sen. Gillibrand’s proposals are proportional to the seriousness of the challenge facing us. This is an issue that cannot be met with half measures and that cannot be dealt with at some later time. We have one last chance to get it right. In addition to backing the right policies, Kirsten is straightforward in acknowledging that this will take courage and leadership. In her own words: “When John F. Kennedy said, ‘I want to put a man on the moon in 10 years,’ he didn’t know if he could do it. But he knew it was an organizing principle. . . . Why not do the same here? Why not say let’s get to net zero carbon emissions in 10 years not because it’s easy, but because it’s hard?”
Her policies on climate change are why I am supporting Sen. Gillibrand for president.
STEPHEN RASCHE
Canterbury