Jim Himes Praises Governor Paterson’s Decision on Broadwater
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday, April 10, 2008
Stamford, CT - Jim Himes, Democratic candidate for U.S. Congress, released the following statement today regarding New York Governor David Paterson's decision to reject the proposed Broadwater liquid natural gas platform in the Long Island Sound:
"I am gratified that Governor Paterson recognized the legitimate environmental and safety concerns held by residents on both sides of the Sound. Governor Paterson's wise decision affirms our shared belief that we can and must responsibly plan for energy needs while protecting Long Island Sound and the residents of Long Island and Connecticut."
"Broadwater is yet another issue on which Chris Shays has tried to have it both ways," said Maura Keaney, campaign manager for Jim Himes. "Shays claimed to oppose Broadwater, but his stated opposition has always been mild and conflicted. Last fall, Shays wavered and said he was 'becoming ashamed' of his opposition to Broadwater. Just this week, Shays said Broadwater opponents have been 'almost hysterical'. On an issue so fundamental to our district, we deserve a Congressman who doesn't waver, who says what he means and means what he says."
Background:
* Last fall, Chris Shays told a group of environmental activists in Long Island, New York, that he was "getting cynical" about Broadwater critics and "becoming ashamed" of being formally opposed to the LNG terminal.
* According to an October 7 article in Newsday (NY), "his remarks shocked some of the forum's attendees and took its host, Rep. Steve Israel (D-Huntington) - a vocal Broadwater foe - by surprise."
* Adrienne Esposito, executive director of NY-based Citizens Campaign for the Environment, said at the time that "it was pathetic to see [Rep. Shays] buckle under the weight of Shell Oil's lobbying."
[Source: "Adding fuel to the fire Conn. Rep. Shays indicates a wavering of his stance against offshore gas plant, citing flawed criticism," Michael Amon, Newsday (NY), p. A9, October 7, 2007]
*At a Town Hall meeting in New Canaan on April 4, 2008, Shays described Broadwater opponents as "almost hysterical."
