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Sen. Patrick Toomey, your voting record on environmental issues is possibly the worst of anyone in the U.S. Senate.
Your record is remarkable for its consistency. It’s like that old cereal commercial in which the brother says: “Mikey won’t like it. He hates everything!”
On one hand, you make public statements about how it is critical to protect the environment. On the other, you have opposed any and all legislation that would have offered any sort of environmental protection. Apparently, you prefer a public face much different then your political practice.
You are among the politicians who deny the human contribution to climate change. As a degreed chemist, I am among the 97 percent of the world’s scientists who disagree. My opinion is based on the scientific papers that I have followed for the past 20 years, not the popular press nor talking points provided by a political party. You are plain wrong, and your legacy, 100 years from now, will be viewed as criminal neglect.
Several proposals to privatize national parks and give away federal lands have appeared in Congress. Given your voting record, I have no doubt which way you will vote.
Why do I care so much about this issue?
Sen. Toomey, like yourself, I too am an Eagle Scout (1966). And for those of you unfamiliar with Scouting, becoming an Eagle Scout is more of a process than an award. It is a time when a boy learns about values such as integrity, responsibility, leadership, citizenship, stewardship and conservation.
With your background, Senator, I would have expected a balanced, reasoned approach to environmental management. Instead, you are a disappointment, an embarrassment.
After 40 years, I still stand proud as an Eagle Scout, but please, Senator, don’t stand near me.
Bob Nattress
Shavertown