President Barack Obama ordered the federal government to cut its greenhouse gas emissions 40 percent below 2008 levels by 2025, and mandated that at least 30 percent of its electricity come from renewable energy sources.
The executive order, which Obama signed Thursday morning, is the latest in a string of climate-related decisions the president has made in recent months to solidify his legacy on global warming in the face of Congressional gridlock. It also comes ahead of international climate treaty talks in Paris later this year, when all eyes will be on the United States, historically the world's top carbon emitter.
Obama's recent actions include vetoing a bill that would have fast-tracked a verdict on the controversial Keystone XL pipeline; banning drilling in Alaska's Bristol Bay; rolling out the Clean Power Plan to curb carbon emissions from coal plants; and in a joint announcement with China, pledging to cut U.S. emissions up to 28 percent below 2005 levels by 2025.
Okay now I am having trouble deciding whether the President will be most remembered for repairing the economy, protecting the gays, or saving the planet.
Of course if the conservatives keep interfering with textbook publication he will be most remembered for being a no birth certificate Muslim who killed four Americans in Benghazi.
Finally, Obama is doing the kind of thing he promised to do for his supporters. I understand he is beholden to the Corporate overloards that donate, but thats how our system works. I would rather see a politician make decisions that benefit everyone
ReplyDeleteLike the President said, he has no more elections to run...he won them both. Quite decisively too.
ReplyDeleteSo now, he can get down to the business of making REAL changes. The kind we were told to believe in.
Had the Republicans tried even the tiniest bit to work with this President, more could have been done sooner. But they decided to behave like spoiled brats and throw tantrum after tantrum. They've held their breath out of spite for 7yrs because someone they consider inferior to them not only won the Presidency, he passed a landmark health care bill despite them.
History will show this man as being one of the greatest Presidents this country was ever blessed with. Countless books, thesis's, and studies will be done on him for decades to come.
History will revile these Republicans for their behavior towards him & his presidency.
Although we are surrounded by ignorance, greed, hatred and injustice, President Obama leads with intelligence, courage, wisdom and compassion. I am grateful for his service every day.
ReplyDeleteThat is a really nice comment. Well said
DeleteHe also has worked tirelessly for peace in the world. He has been the champion to the 11 million who now have health insurance. He has been an advocate for education, a higher minimum wage and equal rights for all.
ReplyDeleteAnd he has done it all without drama and the hysterics of the Republicans.
Meep. Meep.
ReplyDeleteThe conservative AK legislature is not happy about this. Threatening that electric bills will increase $450 a year. Oh woe is us let the great Gnashing of teeth and wringing of hands begin.
ReplyDeleteIt's about time. Perhaps the GOP will learn they can't get every damn thing they wish. People laughed at Al Gore for his enthusiasm on the environment and the screwball towheads want to frack us out of existence.
ReplyDelete