Randi Scheurer Blatss Dems and GOP on Car Emission Rules Slap Down


Could it be that only 8th congressional district Democratic Party primary candidate knows that an election is going to be held in less than two months?

She has sent another press release, this time on the “Free Ride” that the Democratic Party controlled Congress has given the automobile industry.

That’s not exactly what you heard elsewhere, right?

Well, read Randi Scheurer’s press release below:

Congress Gives Automakers Free Ride

George Bush said the new energy bill passed by the Democrat-controlled Congress “represents a major step forward” when he signed it on Wednesday.

That same day, his Environmental Protection Agency denied the applications of California and 16 other states for their right to set higher standards for carbon dioxide greenhouse gas emissions from cars.

The reason they gave for denying these environmental protections? The new energy bill.

“The Bush administration is moving forward with a clear national solution, not a confusing patchwork of state rules,” said E.P.A. administrator Stephen L. Johnson.

On passage by the House, Speaker Nancy Pelosi hailed this weak excuse for an energy policy as “a moment of real change.” Domestic auto industry leaders supported the bill, which gives them cover against meaningful change for at least another decade – plenty of time to dodge and lobby.

“These people in government are supposed to be protecting our precious environment, on which all life depends,” says Randi Scheurer, Democratic candidate for Congress in the IL-8TH District.

“The sad truth is that they sell out – all of them, in both parties and both branches of government – to corporate interests and wealthy campaign contributors.”

17 states – including California, New York, New Jersey, and other leading population centers – are now denied similar waivers. These states represent at least half of all motor vehicles sold in America.

“I guess state’s rights only apply when they do not conflict with the interests of major corporations,” says Scheurer. “This is another example of creeping, big-government, corporate federalism.”

The new law gives the auto industry until 2020, to raise their standards from 27.5 to 35 mpg for cars. The current standard is actually only 22.2 mpg for light trucks and SUVs – the most popular vehicles in America. Europe and Japan already get over 40 miles-per-gallon with their fleets, today.

“Thirteen years leaves a lot of time for more politicking,” says Scheurer. “You can bet the auto industry and its wealthy campaign contributors will be filling the coffers of both parties for years to come.”


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