Tim Kaine's statement on passage of the American Clean Energy and Security Act.
“Today the House took an important step towards transforming the way we use and produce energy in this country. The American Clean Energy and Security Act will put America in the position to lead the global clean energy economy, while finally breaking our dependence on Middle East oil and addressing the gathering threat of climate change.
“Not surprisingly, the Republican Party once again stood in near unanimous opposition to this historic plan. Instead of voting for our clean energy future and for the creation of millions of jobs that can’t be shipped overseas, the GOP ignored the opportunity to move our country forward and failed to act in the best interests of the American people.
“I want to congratulate President Obama for his outstanding leadership and Speaker Pelosi, Majority Leader Hoyer, Chairman Waxman and Congressman Markey for their role in taking this historic step.
“President Obama has said that the nation that leads in the creation of a clean energy economy will be the nation that leads the 21st century global economy. Today, we took a critical step on that path, and Democrats will continue to work with the President to pass a comprehensive energy plan that is good for our economy and good for our environment.”
