[Portland, OR] – Tina Kotek, Oregon’s Democratic candidate for Governor, issued the following statement regarding yesterday’s Supreme Court decision to restrict the Environmental Protection Agency’s authority to mandate carbon emissions reductions:
“Climate change, like so many other important issues, is on the ballot this November. Yesterday’s Supreme Court ruling regarding the EPA once again highlights the critical need to elect climate leaders this year.
“Any recent state-level effort to protect Oregon’s environment or address the climate crisis has faced fierce opposition from corporate special interests, Republicans who repeatedly walked off the job, and Senator Betsy Johnson.
“Despite their opposition, I made sure we passed legislation reducing pollution from cars and trucks and putting Oregon on a path to 100% clean electricity by 2040. And while both of my opponents would gut Oregon’s efforts to limit greenhouse gas emissions on their first day in office, Oregonians can trust me to make sure our state continues our work to protect clean air and clean water for future generations.
“Oregon’s next Governor will play a pivotal role in deciding whether our state keeps reducing pollution or takes a giant leap backward in environmental stewardship. I am the only climate champion in the race, and that’s why I have the support of the Oregon League of Conservation Voters and the Oregon Sierra Club.”