Letter: Majority of 12th District Believes We Need to Address Climate Change

What do Walmart, the Department of Defense, and residents of the 12th Congressional District have in common? They know that climate change is real and that it’s time to take action.  

Walmart has pledged to “create zero waste, operate with 100% renewable energy and sell products that sustain our resources and the environment.” They hold themselves accountable, with an annual Global Responsibility Report.  The DOD has called climate change a “threat multiplier” and is already taking steps to protect its people and places from the effects of climate change. 

Meanwhile, when it comes to the residents of the 12th Congressional district, Fred Keller recently said: “It’s not for me to define the vision of the 12th Congressional District, it’s for me to get out and listen to the people of the 12th Congressional District.’ According to recent polling data, the people of the 12th Congressional district agree that: global warming is happening (68%); will harm plants, animals and future generations (67%); and that citizens should do more to address global warming (62%). That is why the Sierra Club’s endorsement of Marc Friedenberg for his “demonstrated commitment to protecting America’s environment” is so important.

The upcoming special election for our member of Congress on May 21 gives every voter a chance to do something to address climate change.  Walmart, DOD and your fellow citizens know that it’s time for climate action. Fred Keller does not.  ote for Marc Friedenberg to make your voice heard in Congress.

Mick Smyer
Lewisburg

Mick Smyer is an Encore Public Voices Fellow and Founder of Graying Green: Climate Action for an Aging World. He’s also a professor of psychology at Bucknell University.