Kerry let Bush steal this issue from him!

[theHandpuppet]

That's the issue of developing "clean coal technologies", which must have perked the ears of many voters here in WV, a true swing state (not to mention other coal-producing states like KY, OH, PA and Illinois!) I'm surprised Kerry let Bush get the jump on this!

Note to the Kerry camp -- PAY ATTENTION TO THIS ISSUE! It's a mighty big one in some critically important swing states!

[Tandalayo_Scheisskopf]

1. Yes, there are these technologies...

But they will mean nothing until the government mandates them, as it should have a long time ago. Under this maladministration, you can be sure that the government will not mandate them. To do so would require capital investment and hiring people, two things that would bite into profits. Repukes would never do that. Right now, they are making their buds rich. That is their only agenda.

[theHandpuppet]

4. Can't say I disagree, but...

... this is all the more reason Kerry should have robbed Bush of his sound byte on "clean coal technologies". People here in WV (and elsewhere) need to hear that a serious investment in such technologies will CREATE jobs. To people in coal country there is a misperception that environmental law or the development of alternate energy sources takes food off their table. People gotta eat and clothe their kids. Kerry needs to reassure these folks that his energy plan will CREATE new jobs within the coal industry while providing even more jobs in coal country, simultaneously, in the development of alternate energy technologies.

[Grillydad]

2. Ohio

True this may have been a big deal 10-15 years ago in Ohio, but I don't think we need to worry about the coal issue in Ohio. I live in Ohio and the areas that might pay any attention at all will likely be overwhelmingly in favor of the President anyway. In addition, this issue has not come up at all in the news or political ads at all.

That being said, I think JK missed an opportunity to tear the president a new one on the environment. He did OK, but that's an issue he should jack out of the park and show the lies that the president and his administration spout.

[theHandpuppet]

3. The issue IS a big one here in WV

But I agree with you that Kerry missed a prime opportunity to tear Bush a new one on the environment.

[DebJ]

5. I heard this is the issue that lost WV for Gore. Byrd had been

all over Gore about it, and by the time Gore came around to it at the last minute, it was too late.

[madrchsod]

6. there are technologies out there right now

for dealing with many of these "clean fuel" technologies but it takes money and commitment from all parties involved. the biggest problem right now is that there is no real demand for increases in electric power. what needs to be done is the rebuilding of the inter structure of the various grids but then again there is no money to do so..