Feingold Says Johnson’s Criticisms Of Clean Power Plan Are Off-Base

Democratic Senate candidate Russ Feingold is criticizing incumbent Republican Sen. Ron Johnson for claims he’s made about the federal Clean Power Plan.

Johnson told a national gathering of conservatives last week that the Environmental Protection Agency’s rule to reduce carbon dioxide emissions from coal-burning power plant would hold back economic growth. Johnson also said that if federal courts eventually approve the plan, electricity rates would skyrocket.

Feingold said Johnson is wrong, and that the law is an opportunity for Wisconsin to increase jobs by reducing dependence on coal.

“I’m sure we’ll continue to rely significantly on coal, but it’s expensive because we don’t produce it here,” said Feingold. “Solar and wind and other opportunities are very vibrant opportunities here in this state, so I support it.”

Feingold said the Clean Power Plan would be flexible for the states, and represents an opportunity to get serious about climate change.