Energy Program News

Environment California is partnering with Environment America to endorse Representative Jerry McNerney for reelection to the U.S House of Representatives. 

California is a leader in enacting and championing progressive reforms and initiatives on behalf of the environment. From the Million Solar Roofs Initiative to the Global Warming Solutions Act, California has long been the nation’s leader in tackling the toughest environmental issues. California needs representatives who will bring California’s can-do attitude to Washington D.C. when it comes to fighting global warming and shifting to a new clean energy future.

Congressman McNerney has been not only a consistent supporter of the environment, but also a champion of the vision and spirit of California’s solution-oriented environmental agenda. Furthermore, Environment California believes the 11th district race is incredibly important to our goal of creating a pro-environment majority in Washington, D.C.  Simply put, reelecting Jerry McNerney is needed to move America forward and stimulate national action on critical environmental issues such as global warming and energy policy.

McNerney has served in the U.S. House for one term, and has a near-perfect environmental record.  In 2006 he scored 90 percent on Environment America’s legislative scorecard, and he was an Environmental Champion in 2008 with a 100 percent score. [1]  The consistency of his environmental record inspires confidence that he will continue to champion important environmental legislation upon his return to Washington, D.C. 

Congressman McNerney realizes the implications of global warming, both nationally and in the Central Valley, and wants to invest heavily in the natural resources of the 11th district and of the nation in order to wean Americans away from fossil fuels.[2]  For example, in 2007 he voted for record investments in energy efficiency and renewable energy, and paid for that increased investment by cutting subsidies to oil companies.[3]  He also voted for a federal Renewable Electricity Standard to begin the national transition to renewable-resource powered electricity.[4]

In contrast, McNerney’s opponent Dean Andal does not have a dependable commitment to the environment. Mr. Andal demands opening up new areas to oil drilling and exploration.[5] Further, he does not list protecting the environment, fighting global warming or breaking America’s addiction to fossil fuels as one of his priorities as a candidate for United States Congress. [6]    

We trust Congressman McNerney will take on these difficult issues and be a leader in enacting meaningful reforms.  McNerney has the experience, commitment and leadership essential to move Congress toward real environmental solutions.  Environment California and Environment America support Jerry McNerney for reelection to the U.S. House of Representatives because the nation needs legislators who will act strongly and decisively for our environment.