"Seeking to draw clear lines between himself and a field of Republican presidential hopefuls who have been openly hostile to environmental regulations -- and to shore up his own image among his environmental base -- President Barack Obama told a vocally appreciative gathering of Environmental Protection Agency employees Tuesday that they have his thanks and support."
"'The EPA touches on the lives of every single American every single day,' Obama said. 'You help make sure that the air we breathe, the water we drink and the foods we eat are safe. You protect the environment not just for our children, but for their children.'
The agency has unveiled a number of aggressive and in many cases expensive measures -- including tough new efficiency standards for vehicles, new limits on emissions of mercury and other air toxics from power plants, and vigorous rules aimed at curbing air pollution that crosses state lines -- often in the face of furious opposition from affected industries and their supporters on Capitol Hill."
Tom Zeller Jr. reports for the Huffington Post January 10, 2012.
SEE ALSO:
"Obama Praises 'Vital' Work Of EPA" (AP)
"In Big Environmental Speech, Obama Thanks EPA Staff, Mentions Climate Change in Passing" (Climate Progress)
"Carney Plays To Soccer Moms Ahead Of Obama’s EPA Visit" (E2 Wire/The Hill)
"Obama Praises EPA Staff for Pursuit of 'Vital Mission'" (Federal News Radio)
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