Monday, November 12, 2007

California: Land of the Environmental Suckers?

In politics, it is well known that California cares about environmental issues. National candidates who have not mentioned the environment in 49 other states come here and suddenly global warming is all they want to talk about. But, have we become such suckers that politicians feel that this is the only bone they need to throw to the electorate? Are we that gullible?

Dianne Feinstein seems to think so. Last week, literally in the dead of night, she gave her endorsement to our new Attorney General in spite of the fact he refused to disavow well known torture practices. Last week they announced her intention to support retroactive immunity for those who engaged in spying on ordinary Americans. According to polls, these are extremely unpopular positions in California. But, here she is this week, flying out to visit us to make angry speeches about the oil spill. Its called shoring up the base.

Schwarzenegger also seems to exploit the warm fuzzy place the environment has in the heart of Californians. His administration was teetering until he caught on and introduced a number of largely symbolic environmental initiatives. Now he is flying high.

Its alright that California is concerned about the environment but do we have to be such schmucks? A few small nods for the environment should not excuse trouncing with our civil liberties and our nation's good name.

- J

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