There's been a lot of discussion as this primary season unwinds about which Democratic presidential candidate has more red state appeal or more blue state appeal, but little chatter about their very real "green" credentials.
The views of both Sens. Hillary Rodham Clinton and Barack Obama are many shades more verdant than those of the current inhabitant of the White House on everything from Arctic National Wildlife Refuge drilling (both against it), to alternative energy (both for it), to global warming (both believe it).
Instead, as the candidates have criss-crossed the commonwealth leading up to the April 22 primary -- also Earth Day -- they have been sticking to scripts that focus on the war and the economy. Their ads talk about experience, special interests and hope. They've mentioned high fuel prices and alternative energy sources -- mainly wind power and bio-fuels -- but couched them as pocketbook issues or "green collar" job generating new industries.
"I haven't heard a lot about the environment in either the large group speeches they've given or in private meetings for us super delegates," said U.S. Rep. Jason Altmire, D-McCandless. "When I ask about what the candidates will do for our part of the state the environment is something that doesn't come up as a national issue or part of their Western Pennsylvania pitch."
It wasn't always like that. A year ago, while campaigning in Iowa, Mr. Obama and Mrs. Clinton urged thousands of voters at separate Earth Day-themed rallies to make the environment a top campaign issue.
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In primary, it's not easy being green
ON THE ISSUES : ENVIRONMENT
