"Crowd Boos As Va. Lawmaker Says 'Rich People' Like Clean Air"

"BLACKSTONE, Va. — A conservative Virginia Republican said he supports some U.S. EPA efforts and believes the climate is changing during a boisterous town hall last night in a rural part of the state.

'I think we all stand behind the most important work the EPA does, which is to give us a clean environment, air, water,' said Rep. Dave Brat, in response to a constituent's question.

That remark sparked some initial applause from the standing-room-only crowd of more than 100 people, including protesters inside and outside the venue who interrupted the meeting several times. 'I think everyone in this room wants clean air, clean water, so we're all for that,' he added. ...

'Rich people, it turns out, like clean air and clean water,' said Brat, tying a safe environment to a strong economy. Boos quickly drowned out the congressman, who has a doctorate in economics and repeatedly touted his economic credentials throughout the town hall."

Kellie Lunney reports for Greenwire February 22, 2017.