Associated Press
WASHINGTON – Reaction to former Vice President Al Gore and the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change sharing the Nobel Peace Prize for their work in bringing world attention to the problem of climate change:
“Of course he’s happy for Vice President Gore …. He’s happy for the International Panel on Climate Change scientists who also shared the peace prize. Obviously it’s an important recognition. And we’re sure the vice president’s thrilled.” – White House spokesman Tony Fratto, referring to President Bush.
“Al Gore has been warning and educating us about the dangers of climate change for decades. He saw this coming before others in public life and never stopped pushing for action to save our planet, even in the face of public indifference and attacks from those determined to defend the indefensible.” – Former President Clinton.
“This says there is an unprecedented momentum in the world to take necessary action. … I pay my tribute to Mr. Al Gore as a good example of how civil societies and individuals can make differences in raising the awareness of this global challenge. I also pay tribute to IPCC.” – United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon.
“It’s well deserved. … I hope that the new Nobel Peace Prize winner will engage in serious activities with me and others” to reduce greenhouse gas emissions through use of nuclear power and carbon credits for industry. – GOP presidential candidate John McCain.
“I am thrilled about Vice President Al Gore getting the Nobel Peace Prize. It is so well deserved. It was really an honor that not only recognized his decades of work on this important issue that affects our entire planet, but it was also important to do it now just when we’re going to have an opportunity with a new president in January 2009 to begin leading the world toward solutions again.” – Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Rodham Clinton.
“Vice President Gore has been an extraordinary leader for this country. Through his many years of public service, his early and vocal opposition to the war in Iraq, and – above all – his singular leadership in drawing attention to the global climate crisis, Al Gore has advanced the cause of peace at home and around the world. This award is richly deserved.” – Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama.
“The Nobel Peace Prize rewards three decades of Vice President Gore’s prescient and compelling – and often lonely – advocacy for the future of the earth. His leadership stands in stunning contrast to the failure of the current administration to pursue policies that would reduce the harm of global warming.” – Democratic presidential candidate John Edwards.
“As today’s announcement confirms, reversing the effects of global warming is an issue of global justice and security. Al’s tireless efforts to increase awareness of the threats of global warming have provided a powerful voice telling the world that we need to act now.” – Democratic presidential candidate Chris Dodd.
“This prize is important, not only in recognition of Vice President Gore’s extraordinary achievements, but also in acknowledgment of the importance of fighting global climate change.” – Democratic presidential candidate Bill Richardson.
“No other person has worked harder or done more to draw much needed attention to the crisis of global climate change, one of the most critical issues facing our planet. Future generations will thank him for his work to save our way of life.” – Democratic National Committee Chairman Howard Dean.
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