Giuliani Opposes Congressional Fuel Economy Deal

In a revealing interview on Meet the Press today, GOP Presidential candidate Rudy Giuliani said he does not support the mandated increase to 35-mpg that both the House and Senate -- and I believe even the president -- support. To quote Rudy: "That isn't the way I think it should be done."

What is his alternative strategy? Politically, only one other alternative strategy exists: "technology, technology, technology, blah, blah, blah." Yes, Rudy wants to subsidize hybrids and biofuels -- a voluntary strategy that has failed to stop the steady decline in average fuel economy -- and the steady increase in gasoline consumption -- in this country since the mid-1980s.

We've already heard some dubious energy/climate policy from the Giuliani camp, but here he himself demonstrated that he just doesn't get it: In responding to Russert's question about the fuel economy deal, Rudy said we needed to build more oil refineries. Well, only if the strategy of fuel efficiency and alternative fuels fails -- which it certainly will if President Giuliani pushes his voluntary do-nothing technology strategy.

Rudy also said he wanted to push more nuclear and "clean coal" and, weirdly, "expansion of hydroelectric power." [Note to Rudy's energy advisor -- this means you, former Energy Secretary of Herrington -- we are pretty much tapped out on hydro.] He made no mention of renewables like wind or solar.

The interview is now available here. The energy stuff is at the very end. I don't think he'll be the GOP nominee (though he is currently the gambler's favorite), but if he is, the interview is probably worth watching. Otherwise, not so much.

Comments

[Boris]

What is it about reducing dependence on foreign oil and improving CAFE standards that sends conservatives and other GOPers into a frenzy? Why is common sense so uncommon among political ideologues? Why is this stupid, worthless, incompetent SOB even in the race?

[VALiveOak]

Someone should tell Rudy, that simply playing the role
of a contrarian - naysayer is insufficient to win votes.

[Swampfish]

Rudy also said he wanted to push more nuclear and "clean coal" and, weirdly, "expansion of hydroelectric power."



*****Clean coal what's next with the Repukes Good Cancer ?

[thinkbig]

Great picture. That needs to be posted on right wing blogs so they can see who they are voting for. Only trying to help you know...

[realitytrumpsbull]

That's fine, he can oppose it all he wants.
When Murkinz master the technology to provide
for their own energy needs, then he'll have to
find other people to play golf with...if
they haven't turned the golf course back over
to farmland, by then...