Kaine Statement On Papal Encyclical On Climate Change

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Senator Tim Kaine released the following statement on Pope Francis’ encyclical Laudato Si, which called for greater individual and societal action to combat climate change:

"Pope Francis today reiterated what has long been confirmed by overwhelming evidence: climate change exists, it is significantly driven by human activity, and we have an obligation to do something about it – for affected communities at home like Hampton Roads that are affected by seal level rise, and for striving communities all over the developing world.  I believe political leaders must think of our planet not just as a trove of resources for us to tap until they are exhausted, but as a sacred responsibility whose long-term health is up to every generation to preserve for the next.  I thank His Holiness for reminding us of our social, moral, and indeed spiritual obligation to leave our children a cleaner planet than the one we have now.”

###