Dear SCORECARD Reader,
We of course recognize that some of our recent setbacks must be viewed in the context of a national recession and historic state budget shortfalls. We have great respect for and high expectations of our legislators, and we understand that the immense challenges that we face demand strong leadership and a real commitment. However, we can’t make excuses, nor can we accept them.
This Scorecard tells the story of our Legislature’s environmental record over the past two years. It quantifies the environmental votes of each individual legislator, an important first step in our cycle of accountability. But it goes much further, providing critical qualitative assessments as well. This is your inside look at environmental politics in Washington - an honest and trusted guide that educates voters, rewards those who have acted to protect our natural resources, and holds accountable those who have not.
This document is not just a look back - it also launches us into the next biennium. We will continue our powerful advocacy through our constant lobbying presence in Olympia, our strong relationship with Governor Chris Gregoire, and our extensive grasstops network.
As the political voice of the environment, we know that success will come only by working in close partnership with a broad range of allies and with leaders from both major political parties. Together with the Washington Environmental Council, our legislative partner, we will continue to collaborate with the 25 organizations in the Environmental Priorities Coalition in order to deliver historic achievements on the issues that you care about.
Ken Lederman
Chair, Board of Directors
Washington Conservation Voters
