Paulsen changes his mind when it’s politically convenient

To the Editor:

In 2008, when Erik Paulsen was asked if he believes humans are contributing to climate change, he responded by saying, “I’m not smart enough to know if that’s true or not.” For the past 10 years he has denied the existence of climate change—until recently.

A few weeks ago, we found out that Erik Paulsen believes in climate change when he joined the House Climate Solutions Caucus. So, what changed his opinion to make him suddenly believe in what scientists have been saying for years? Maybe he remembered one of the many global climate summits that have been held during his years in office. Maybe this is a tough election year and he knows that the majority of the Third Congressional District believes that climate change is real. Whatever the reason, he has changed his opinion to support the facts; however, I am not impressed.

We need a leader who will try to solve big problems like climate change when they arise, and not just when it’s politically beneficial. If Paulsen isn’t smart enough to see the facts on climate change until now, maybe he shouldn’t be representing district three in Congress.

Sydney Lewis, Minnetonka
Minnetonka Sun-Sailor, June 19, 2018