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Torres Statement on Withdrawal from Paris Climate Agreement

May 31, 2017

ONTARIO, CA – Today, Rep. Norma J. Torres (D-Pomona) issued the following statement in response to reports President Trump will pull out of the Paris Agreement on climate change:

"I am extremely disappointed by the announcement that President Trump will withdraw from the Paris climate accord. This agreement was a landmark achievement that saw unprecedented cooperation between 175 nations and all sectors of the economy – from industries including oil and coal to retailers, utilities, farmers, information technology, and car manufacturers – for the greater good of the planet. Never before has a such a large, diverse set of stakeholders with incredibly divergent priorities come to the negotiating table, put aside singular short-term interests, and come to an agreement that will benefit future generations. To say this was a diplomatic victory for the United States would be an understatement. However, once again, we're seeing President Trump cede U.S. global leadership to suit his personal political agenda.

"As sea levels rise and extreme weather events become more frequent, we can't ignore the fact that climate change is real and is already impacting communities across the globe and right here at home. Denying science is not only foolish; it is undeniably dangerous. Furthermore, our competitors across the world are already taking action. The President should look to the future and harness the American innovative spirit to lead the way in sustainability and clean energy. By stubbornly denying progress, we set our economy only further behind. I hope the President considers the devastating impact this decision will have on our planet and on America's credibility and moral standing in the world."

Rep. Torres represents California's 35th congressional district and is a member of the House Committee on Natural Resources.

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