An Inconvenient Office To Hold

The Yellow Scene’s statement (Letters, October) about the state legislature trying to pass a “meaningless resolution” opposing the Iraq war was the most misinformed comment I’ve ever read in The Yellow Scene.

My how things have changed.

Last month, to the chagrin of more than a few who don’t accept that the world’s environment is eroding before our eyes, Gore was awarded the 2007 Nobel Peace Prize for his efforts to raise awareness regarding global warming with his documentary “An Inconvenient Truth.”

Shortly after being bestowed with the prestigious honor, his growing cadre of supporters continued their plea for Gore to run for president once more. It seems his foray into filmmaking has garnered him more respect than his days working as Bill Clinton’s veep.

Here’s a message to Mr. Gore: Please don’t run for president.

This plea isn’t a denial of global warming. To the contrary, in fact. Global warming is very real, and Gore’s work has won him well-deserved accolades.
But one thing has become apparent since Gore started his one-man, eco-crusade: It appears he can accomplish more outside of office than from within.

When “An Inconvenient Truth” became the topic of mainstream conversation, the general public finally took notice that what’s happening at this moment in history is the makings of a true horror story—one that we can avoid.

The political climate has also since changed, with more high-level elected officials taking the environment a whole lot more seriously. Look locally to see its effect. Within days of getting voted into office this year, Colorado Gov. Bill Ritter had pushed through an impressive environmental package that doubled the state’s commitment to renewable energy.

Or look at Rep. Mark Udall, who drives the geek-chic Toyota Prius with 50-plus miles to the gallon. And he’ll testify that more than a few Republicans can be spotted cruising D.C.’s Capitol Hill in hybrids.

On the national scale, check out California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger’s efforts. He has gone over President Bush’s head and worked out cooperative environmental efforts with Great Britain. The mayor of New York City made a humongous attempt that would have tolled every vehicle entering Manhattan in an effort to curb emissions. It was KO’d by state legislatures but was still a great step in making the Big Apple the Green Apple.

The list goes on, and on, and on.

That’s not to say all this wouldn’t have happened if Gore hadn’t released his Academy Award-winning film. But he has expedited the process.

Let’s hope he’s content in knowing that the eco-impact he’s made as a one-issue man is far greater than what was accomplished while serving as a politician.

So, Mr. Gore, please accept the Nobel Peace Prize and know that you’d never have traveled this far in public office.

Over the next four to eight years, we know you’ll continue to lead us in the fight to save the planet—so long as we’re not calling you “Mr. President.”