Scott Garrett is not a fan

Congressman Garrett has possibly the worst record on the environment of any politician in America since official ratings started in the 1970′s.

Environmental groups such as Sierra Club, League of Conservation Voters, Friends of the Earth Action, and American Wilderness Coalition consistently give Garrett grades in the 0 to 25% range regarding his votes on environmentally-related legislation. (Project Vote Smart)

The interest group Republicans for Environmental Protection gave Garrett a 17% rating in 2008. Even Republicans find it hard to support the Congressman.

Brent Blackwelder, the President of the respected environmental organization Friends of the Earth Action recently said this about Rep. Garrett’s environmental record:

“Rep. Garrett has almost always voted against the health of New Jersey families, against the conservation of energy, against the protection of important parks and natural areas. He repeatedly sides with special interests against the public interest. It’s time for him to go.”

Garrett does not believe global warming exists. He once voted to eliminate language from a bill that addressed the global warming crisis. (Blue Jersey)

Garrett’s record on the environment suggests he would mortgage our future for a few more benefits right now, such as benefits to his re-election coffers. Unfortunately, any other short-term benefits are far outweighed by the destruction of lands that play an indispensable role in our society.

Check out the blog Green Politics New Jersey. It has done an incredible job reporting on environmental politics in the Garden State, including on Congressman Garrett’s horrendous environmental record. The site is also a great resource for making your life more environmentally friendly and energy efficient. One of the most interesting and unique aspects of the site is its “NJ Green Events Calendar” which contains a comprehensive listing of events dedicated or related to promoting environmental sustainability.