Comparing Kerry and Bush on Energy
THE KERRY RECORD: Kerry has proposed a major energy plan that reduces our dependence on foreign sources of energy through alternative sources, creates jobs and protects the environment; led the fight to increase fuel economy standards for cars and trucks.
Kerry Supported Increased Funding To Research Alternative-Fuel Vehicles. As senator, Kerry has supported measures to boost funding for hydrogen fuel cell research and to give consumers incentives to purchase alternative-fuel vehicles. His legislative record includes votes against defunding renewable energy programs and for requiring ethanol content in gasoline. [106th Congress, S. 1186, Vote# 171, 6/16/99, 103rd Congress, H.R. 4624, Vote# 255, 8/3/94]
Kerry's Plan For Cleaner Energy Will Create 500,000 New Jobs. KerryÆs cleaner energy plan will create more than 500,000 jobs in the next decade. Kerry's energy plan includes a $20 billion Energy Security and Conservation Trust Fund that will reduce our dependence on foreign sources of energy by investing in clean and renewable energy technologies. [John KerryÆs Comprehensive Vision for a Cleaner Environment, a Stronger Economy, Healthy Communities, 10/03; Bloomberg, 3/24/04]
Kerry Co-Sponsored An Amendment Proposing Increased Fuel Efficiency Standards. In an amendment to the 2002 energy bill, Kerry and Senator John McCain (R-AZ) proposed increasing fuel efficiency standards from 24 miles per gallon to 36 miles per gallon by 2015. [Detroit Free Press, 8 March 2002]
Kerry Supports Making America's Cars More Efficient. John Kerry believes that all Americans should drive the cars, SUVs, minivans and trucks of their choice, but that these vehicles can be more efficient, safe and affordable. John Kerry believes that we need a strong and realistic fuel economy standard, coupled with tax incentives for consumers to buy the vehicles they want and incentives for manufacturers to convert factories to build the more efficient vehicles of the future. It will enhance national security, strengthen the American auto industry, and protect and create jobs. [John Kerry's Comprehensive Vision for a Cleaner Environment, a Stronger Economy, Healthy Communities, 10/03]
THE BUSH RECORD: Bush proposed an energy plan with clear bias towards corporate interests; pushed for a greater use of conventional polluting energy sources.
Bush Energy Plan Is A Massive Giveaway To Big Industry. The Bush energy plan gives billions in subsidies to the oil, gas coal and nuclear industries. The energy bill contains nearly $68 billion for the oil and gas industries, $10 billion in subsidies for the nuclear and electric industries and almost $8 billion to the coal industry. [Taxpayers For Common Sense Analysis of HR 6, 11/18/03]
Bush Energy Plan Slighted Renewable Energy Sources In Favor Of More Oil, Gas Drilling: President Bush's national energy plan slighted clean, innovative, available renewable energy technologies such as wind, solar and geothermal energyùin favor of more domestic oil and gas drilling, increased nuclear power production and an upsurge in coal production and use. [NRDC Report On Energy Plan, 6/01]
Bush Will Continue To Support Tax Incentives For Big Industry. If reelected, Bush will continue to supports tax incentives to increase energy efficiency like those seen in the energy bill. [New York Times, Campaign 2004, On The Issues: Environment]
Bush Will Continue To Oppose Raising Gas Mileage Standards. If reelected Bush will continue to oppose raising gas mileage standards for cars and light trucks. [New York Times, Campaign 2004, On The Issues: Environment]
