It appears that Mr. Obama just "Bushed" me
and many others living near CAFOs in rural communities. His choice for
Secretary of Agriculture, Tom Vilsack, appears to be a reversal to
Obama's environmental goals.
Did Mr. Obama lie to the nation when in is
Environmental Fact Sheet on his own website he stated as important to him
to 'Regulate CAFOs: Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations (CAFOs),
which raise more than 40 percent of U.S. livestock, comprise a larger share of
the livestock industry every year. Barack Obama has worked for tougher
environmental regulations on CAFOs. He has supported legislation to set tough
air and water pollution limits for livestock operations, including limits on
nitrogen, phosphorus, hydrogen sulfide, ammonia, and other pollutants. In the
Obama Administration, the Environmental Protection Agency will strictly
monitor and regulate pollution from large CAFOs, with fines for those who
violate tough air and water quality standards. Obama also strongly supports
efforts to ensure meaningful local control.
Tom Vilsack has been an ardent supporter
of Factory Farms and removal of local control for many years and unless he has
changed his ways, I see no relief for rural residents and the environment that
we all share.
I have said prior to the election that my
chance of disappointment would be greater with Mr. Obama than Mr. McCain
because I knew to expect nothing from Mr. McCain. Now the disappointment is
here as a PRO-CAFO Secretary of Agriculture is getting appointed directly in
contrast to what I read on Obama's own website. I just did not expect to be
disappointed so soon.
Sorry Mr. Obama, but you are quickly
losing me as a supporter. I would have gladly done my part to bring about
change, but now I feel deceived. It appears you have sided with the giants of
agri-business and I will have at least four more years of fouled air and
water.
Is there anything you can tell me to give
me hope that you are not being deceptive in other ways or that I am incorrect
in my observations?