Science And Dumbya Don't Mix

Think Progress notes that the Union of Concerned Scientists have issued a report that says some 60% of the staff scientists at the Environmental Protection Agency have experienced at least one instance of political interference over the last five years from Bushies. Some of the examples include use of selective or incomplete data, misrepresentation of scientists' findings, and inability to openly express concerns. Undoubtedly, a review of other Federal agencies involved in scientific or medical studies would disclose similar abuses of power.

The sheer lawless arrogance of this Assministration is breathtaking. Playing with the health and wellbeing of American citizens to push a rightwing political agenda is unforgiveable.

Bush "Stratergery" on Car Pollution Rebuked

Yesterday the Supreme Court, in a 5-4 decision, rebuked the Bush Assministration's jaw-dropping claim that the Clean Air Act did not authorize the Environmental Protection Agency to regulate tailpipe emissions from new cars and trucks. The majority found that the Clean Air Act does, in fact, give the EPA that authority, and also found that states have the right to sue the EPA to challenge its decisions. The dissenters were the "Flat Earth Four," Rebunglecan troglodytes Roberts, Scalia, Thomas and Alito, who believe the government has no power to intrude, unless it's in a recount, in the bedroom, or between a doctor and patient.

As David Doniger of the Natural Resouces Defense Council said, "this administration's legal strategy for doing nothing has been repudiated." As a result, automakers are now clamoring for national standards rather than facing the prospect of state-by-state regulations. The decision also raises the likelihood of comprehensive legislation on global warming that would provide an economy-wide approach to the problem.