For the past 2 years, legislators in Lansing have been dragging their feet about whether or not to pass the renewable energy portfolio standard.

C’mon already!

Time and time again I have highlighted the importance of Michigan’s investment in renewable energy. The faster we pass this legislation; the sooner companies will be given the go-ahead that it is safe to invest in Michigan. Indeed, a report released earlier this month shows that investment in renewable energy has the potential to create 60 thousand jobs right here in Michigan. With a quality workforce that is ready to embrace the ‘green-collar’ jobs of the 21st century, and the quality of life to keep them here, we are well placed to lead America into the jobs of the future.

My opponent disagrees. In launching his campaign earlier this year he told the Ludington Daily News that “Alternative energy does not work.”  Not only that, he doesn’t even believe in climate change. This shows that not only is he wrong on the science, but by putting ideology over common sense he costs Michigan jobs and continues to hurt efforts to improve our economy.

Even local Republicans disagree with my opponent on this issue.

State Senator Jason Allen, told the Traverse City Record Eagle last Sunday that, “Legislation is important to show how the state will use renewable resources in the future. Passage of the bills definitely has the potential to help the region’s economy.”

Michigan has the highest unemployment rate in the country, and by pursuing a right-wing ideological agenda instead of the common-sense efforts needed to create jobs now, my opponent shows just how out of step he is with the concerns of ordinary residents of this district.

We can do better.