"The economy may dominate the headlines and candidate debates, but the people we elect will also decide how we protect our public water supply, preserve state lands, prevent pollution, and manage energy and transportation options for all citizens" said David Bingham, CTLCV co-chair.
Several of the League's top environmental champions are being targeted for defeat by interests with big dollars to spend. In response, CTLCV has created its own Political Action Committee to promote a strong bi-partisan slate of endorsed candidates for voters to consider on election day.
"If you care about the air you breathe, the water you drink, and the wonderful parks and landscapes in Connecticut, then pay close attention to what candidates are saying about environmental issues," said Bingham.
"The candidates we endorse are reliable in their environmental values, and pledge to prioritize environmental matters important to their constituents. We urge people in their districts to support them at the polls on November 8," said Ken Bernhard, CTLCV Co-Chair.
According to the League, people don't often know whether or not a candidate shares their core values on the environment. CTLCV has done the research and wants to be sure voters know who will best represent them on these issues.
Since 2000, CTLCV has surveyed candidates on their positions, records, and plans for protecting the environment. This year's candidate survey contained questions about environmental issues that are likely to be considered during the 2017 legislative session beginning this January. Responses of all candidates, regardless of endorsement, are posted at www.ctlcv.org.
CTLCV has kept tabs on how legislators are voting once in office. An annual Environmental Scorecard is also posted on its site, reporting how each incumbent lawmaker voted on key bills each session.
"Connecticut's economic and environmental quality of life has always depended on our natural resources. We are counting on our endorsed candidates to champion smart environmental policies that will protect these irreplaceable assets," said Bernhard. "The environment is our greatest asset, worth investing in through thick and thin for the long term health of our state."
This communication is paid for by the CTLCV Political Action Committee. This message was made independent of any candidate or political party. Contributions to the CTLCV PAC were made by CTLCV, Inc., League of Conservation Voters, Inc., and David Bingham. Additional information about the CTLCV PAC may be found on the State Elections Enforcement Commission's internet website.