Ron Edmonds/AP
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President Barack Obama has talked about creating a diverse cabinet with potentially conflicting views. His latest appointment, Senator Judd Gregg from New Hampshire, is a demonstration that he takes this seriously. Gregg, a Republican, disagrees with Obama on many key issues including drilling in Alaska, relations with China, and how to deal with Social Security. Some have pointed out that Gregg, who is to become commerce secretary, may even oppose the department he will be leading; he has campaigned to have it eliminated in the past.
Still, Gregg is expected to help the Obama administration gain credibility in the eyes of Republican and conservative members of Congress. Senator Jeff Sessions of Alabama said of Gregg that "he'll have a lot of credibility with colleagues," but added that "if he wants to send more money to Wall Street fat cats, I may not support him on it."
While economic stimulus is on everyone's mind, environmentalists are also asking what such plans will mean for the health of the planet. In this respect, Gregg's nomination seems promising. As a representative from New Hampshire, Gregg found millions of dollars for the state, most of which funded conservation projects, the biggest of which was the "Forest Legacy Project." Additionally, Gregg demonstrated strong support for science and education, helping to establish a relationship between the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the .
Hopefully, Gregg and Obama will be able to focus on what they have in common: a dedication to economic recovery and strong support of environmental issues, to help forge a greener economic stimulus package.
For more environmental news, check out Focus Earth: February, 6, 2009: A New Appointment and State of the Interior Department.
Read more about green politics:
How to Write Your Elected Officials
Green Glossary: Single Issue
How Can Obama Save the Planet? Read The 100 Day Action Plan E-book
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Forget Democrat or Republican, Vote Green!
