June 8, 2010 Republicans
for Environmental Protection, a national grassroots organization that
advocates for the responsible stewardship of our environment and
natural resources, is pleased to endorse Congressman Mark Kirk for
election to the U.S. Senate from Illinois.
"Mark Kirk is a proven leader in safeguarding our environment and an
outstanding steward of our country’s natural heritage," REP President
Rob Sisson said. "Congressman Kirk’s are routinely among the top scores
on our environmental scorecard and in 2009 REP was pleased to honor him
as the Greenest Republican in Congress."
"Throughout his service in the House, he has supported strong measures
to clean up air and water, develop cleaner sources of energy,
strengthen protections for public lands, and expand the availability of
open space for every American to enjoy," Sisson said.
"We invite Illinois voters to compare Kirk’s track record of action to
his opponent’s words. One of his highest priorities has been protecting
Lake Michigan and the other four Great Lakes from threats such as
invasive species, loss of wetlands, and mercury pollution," REP
Illinois Chapter President Eric Landen said. "Congressman Kirk was
instrumental in forcing a BP refinery to back off its plan to dump more
industrial sludge into Lake Michigan, and has played a key role in
protecting local high-biodiversity ecosystems."
"Congressman Kirk has been in the forefront of securing funds for
cleanup of contaminated industrial sites and to expand protected open
space in Illinois. He has voted to protect our great natural heritage
from industrial development, including roadless areas in America’s
national forests and the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. He has fought
for a strong national policy to reduce our country’s dangerous
dependence on oil and develop cleaner, more secure energy sources,"
David Jenkins, REP vice president for government and political affairs,
said.
"As Illinois’ next senator, Kirk will bring the same kind of thoughtful
and responsible decision-making to Congress’ upper house. His strong
stewardship ethic will serve our nation well as it faces many current
challenges. We are confident that his will be a strong voice for the
environment in the 112th Congress," Jenkins said.
Republicans for Environmental Protection is dedicated to resurrecting
the Republican Party's great conservation tradition and strengthening
its commitment to the responsible stewardship of our environment and
natural resources, protecting the achievements of great
conservation-minded Republicans such as President Theodore Roosevelt.
"Republicans were responsible for most of this nation's landmark
environmental laws and for protecting America's natural heritage. We
are fortunate that we have leaders like Mark Kirk to carry on the
conservative tradition of conservation today," said Jim DiPeso, REP’s
vice president for policy and communications.
