Trump, GOP want to copy China’s smog actions

The Jan. 5 edition had had two interesting and contrasting articles side by side on page 10. One stated that heavy persistent smog caused by industrial and vehicle emissions has been smothering one-third of China’s cities resulting in serious human health impacts.

Immediately next to this article was another stating “Republicans target Obama rules on methane, coal.” This article states “The vote came as GOP leaders said their top regulatory targets will be Obama’s rules to reduce methane emissions and lessen the environmental impact of coal mining on nearby streams.”

This means the GOP wants to reverse Obama’s trend of improving air and water quality. House Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., said he expects swift action on the two environmental rules, arguing they limit the nation’s energy production. He said Congress will seek to invalidate the rules starting at month’s end. In other words, the GOP leaders are now fighting to allow increased pollution levels from coal-fired power plants and more damage caused by coal mining to nearby streams.

This seems so ironic given Trump’s highly negative attitude toward mainland China. Why do Trump and GOP want to damage U.S. citizen’s health by emulating China’s actions?

Kelly Courtright

Deer Park