DPW Chair Wineke Statement Celebrating Earth Day 2009

MADISON – As millions of people around the world join in celebrating the 39^th Annual Earth Day, Democratic Party of Wisconsin (DPW) Chair Joe Wineke today issued the following statement:

“Nearly four decades ago, Wisconsin’s Gaylord Nelson founded the first Earth Day, marking the birth of a new national environmental consciousness.

“Now, after eight gloomy years under George Bush, President Obama has given us a new reason to celebrate this Earth Day. The Obama Administration has committed to a comprehensive energy plan that will generate millions of new clean energy jobs, including thousands here in Wisconsin.

“President Obama’s plan will break our dependence on foreign oil, reduce deadly pollution and finally tackle global warming and its potentially catastrophic effects.

“We are making important gains. But for too long Washington has been held captive by the special interests and has turned a blind eye to the energy crises and the gathering threat of climate change that is affecting people here in Wisconsin.

“The Democratic Party has long-believed that it is our responsibility to safeguard our natural resources and protect public health. Join us and celebrate Earth Day in the spirit of Gaylord Nelson, by recommitting to a healthier, cleaner planet.”