Environment, Land and Resources

New Mexico is known as the Land of Enchantment because of its diverse and beautiful landscape, clear skies and fresh air. As an outdoorsman, I have a special appreciation for our treasured natural resources. I'll continue to protect the land we all enjoy so future generations can always experience the beauty of our state.

At the Public Regulation Commission, I have made New Mexico a leader in clean renewable energy and fought global warming. Because of my commitment to the environment and accomplishments in fighting global warming, the Sierra Club and the League of Conservation Voters have endorsed my candidacy.

In December 2006, I signed on to the Joint Action Framework on Climate Change on behalf of the state of New Mexico. The PRC collaborated on the Framework with the utility commissions in California, Oregon and Washington to create immediate regional solutions for global warming. Because the Bush administration has ignored the problem of climate change, we have joined other states to take the lead in taking real steps to address these challenges.

The Global Warming Threat

Global warming threatens our land and our planet. Studies show that the Southwestern United States, from Southern California to Texas, will be one of the hardest-hit areas of the country as global warming progresses. Global warming is here. The signs are everywhere from the bath ring around Elephant Butte reservoir to our continuing summer heat waves. As your Congressman, I will continue the progress I've made at the PRC to make New Mexico a part of the solution and less of the problem that is endangering our state, nation and the world.

Scientists with the UN Intergovernmental Panel on Climate change have made careful studies of the causes and effects of global climate change. They warn that we have little time left to reverse the damage we have already done and stop the consequences of decades of environmental destruction and neglect.

Real Solutions to Global Warming

The Bush Administration has failed to take global warming seriously, and we must act now to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, expand renewable energy development and lead the way to a clean-energy economy that protects our land and natural resources and preserves them for generations to come.

Cap and Trade

By instituting a cap and trade program, we can reduce greenhouse gas emissions without placing an undue burden on businesses or consumers. Scientists believe that we must reduce our carbon emissions to 80 percent below the 1990 levels by 2050 in order to avoid the most catastrophic consequences of global warming. I'll fight for a cap and trade system that makes this a reality. We can also reduce emissions by raising CAFE standards, which measure fuel efficiency in automobiles. The United States must lead the way in creating innovative technology that reduces our carbon footprint.

Using our National Laboratories

Our national laboratories are already studying both the impending damage and the solutions to global warming. We can expand our laboratories' mission by including research to maximize the potential of renewable energy. This opportunity can provide tremendous economic opportunities for New Mexicans.

Taking the Global Lead

I joined with my Western state colleagues to develop regional solutions to global warming to compensate for the failure of the Bush Administration to address the issue. The United States should set an example for other nations and take the lead on international agreements to reduce global warming and address the challenge of climate change.

Water, New Mexico's Lifeblood

New Mexico faces a special challenge when it comes to water. We need to be more careful about how this valuable resource is used, and shared. Clean water is vital to our health, our food, our land and the greater eco-system.