Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-NJ) released the following statement today in response to the U.S. officially exiting the Paris Climate Accord:
“Due to President Trump’s wholesale rejection of reality, today the U.S. officially exits the Paris Climate Accord. This action will not only have a devastating impact on our economy and environment, but it is also an assault on the health and safety of our communities. Out of the nearly 200 countries that joined the agreement, we are now the only nation in the world to leave. This is yet another grim milestone brought on by the Trump Administration. History’s long gaze will look back on this moment as an utter abdication of leadership and a betrayal of our allies.
“Ballots continue to be counted in yesterday’s historic election, and Americans across the country have the right to have their voices heard. Regardless of the outcome, the fact remains that both the business and global communities are moving to curb carbon pollution because they know it is the only long-term way our economy and our environment can thrive. The U.S. must not remain the only country in the world to deny this reality, and I will continue to work with my colleagues to build a clean, equitable future for all."