Trump’s rubber stamp

Dear editor:

Last week, President Trump made the shameful decision to withdraw the United States from the Paris Climate Accord. Equally disgraceful was Congressman Bruce Westerman’s applause of this irresponsible action.

While not perfect, the Paris Accord was an important step in addressing the world’s growing carbon emissions. The United States gave up no sovereignty in being part of the Accord. It set voluntary, nonbinding goals for each country, despite Rep. Westerman’s claims that the Accord allowed foreign governments to direct how we operate.

If we fail to globally curb carbon emissions, the world will continue to grow warmer, sea levels will rise and we’ll face more intense storms, droughts and floods. These aren’t just the conclusions of the overwhelming majority of climate scientists, they are also shared by the U.S. Department of Defense. During Secretary of Defense James Mattis’ confirmation process, he stated that “climate change is impacting stability in areas of the world where our troops are operating today” and that it “is a challenge that requires a broader, whole-of-government response.”

Rep. Westerman — with your vote on the House health care bill and now your foolhardy support for withdrawing from the Paris Accord, you’ve shown that you are nothing more than a rubber stamp for our disgraceful president. I’ve got two young boys and you seem intent on supporting policies that will weaken our country and make the world a worse place for them. For the sake of my sons and all your constituents, find some backbone and start thinking for yourself for a change.

Chris Cannon Hot Springs