This is a Moms Clean Air Force exclusive interview with Senator Darlin Leach of Pennsylvania:
What is unique about protecting Pennsylvania’s resources?
Pennsylvania’s natural resources have been an important part of the Commonwealth’s character from the day of its founding. Penn’s Woods belongs to each and every one of our citizens. Part of being a Pennsylvanian is understanding the importance of wisely using our resources while being good stewards of the environment.
As a parent, are you worried about the effects of climate change on your children and the children of Pennsylvania?
Absolutely. Drought, famine, and other natural disasters could potentially cause unprecedented kinds of social unrest all around the globe. I want a stable, prosperous, and sustainable world for my children, but that won’t happen unless we all work together on climate change.
Why is a bipartisan effort so important and how can these efforts be achieved in our politically polarizing culture?
Climate change is happening and we are the cause. Until we have bipartisan agreement on that point, it will be impossible to adequately address the problem. The stakes are simply too high for any major political party to provide refuge for those who deny the science of climate change.
Is there anything you’d like to share that is important for Moms Clean Air Force members to know?
One of the most effective ways to lobby your elected officials is to explain to them that you don’t care about any other issue. They need to know that you will decide who to vote for based on this issue alone. Getting organized and following through on that pledge is crucial.
Senator Daylin Leach (D-Montgomery/Delaware), a former attorney and professor, has been a member of the Pennsylvania General Assembly since winning his seat in the House of Representatives in 2002. In 2008, he was elected Senator of the 17th District. He is currently the Minority Chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee and a member of the Appropriations, Education, Environmental Resources and Energy, Labor and Industry, and State Government Committees. He is married to Jennifer Anne Mirak, a psychologist, with whom he has two children, Brennan and Justin.