WASHINGTON (June 26, 2009)—

“Today, I voted for the American Clean Energy and Security Act of 2009, a comprehensive piece of legislation that creates clean jobs, moves us away from our dependence on foreign oil, tackles pollution, and transforms our economy to face the new challenges of the 21st century.

“Supporting this bill was not an easy decision. I struggled with this legislation, and I recognize the good points on both sides of the issue.  But I believe we have to take this opportunity to invest in the future of our economy, and we have to act before the crisis gets worse.

“Early on, I had concerns about the bill, but I was able to push for significant changes that will impact our state—like 30 million additional allowances for our rural electric cooperatives and a $60-billion-dollar investment in clean coal.

“When I cast this vote, I thought about my children, their future and the duty all of us have to protect God’s creation. For me, this was a decision that I feel is right and a decision that will, with time, fundamentally change the way our nation and our state produce and use energy, while creating better opportunities for our people. I look forward to seeing more jobs, cleaner industry, and strong economic growth in the Commonwealth.”

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