Bring it on, EPA

While I understand Sen. Murkowski’s instinct in trying to shut EPA down, I would suggest Republicans consider this—let the administration regulate away. Sen. Rockefeller’s proposal is likely motivated in part by local constituency issues (like jobs), but also by a more quiet and realistic concern within their ranks that EPA’s move will play politically against Democrats’ re-election chances.

It is understandable that those with industry clients (as well as political donors) in town would be apprehensive about an aggressive EPA regulating a much stricter and more costly regulatory scheme to control carbon emissions. However, in actuality, any regulatory proposal that Jackson attempts to implement will be met with a barrage of litigation that will most likely delay said implementation until long after she leaves her post (even assuming a second term). Also, EPA’s actions can easily be framed by anyone as yet another example of overreach by an Obama administration hell bent on government intrusion in every aspect of daily life—a move likely to be met with the same level of public disgust that the administration is experiencing with its health reform agenda.

Republican and sane moderate Democrats should continue their efforts to rein in EPA, however if those efforts fail, why not allow this administration to follow through on this debacle of a bluff?

Mark McIntosh is an environmental law attorney and policy consultant providing expertise in natural resources, air and energy strategies. He most recently served the George W. Bush administration as Deputy General Counsel of the White House Council on Environmental Quality after having worked as an environmental lawyer and policy counsel in the private sector and for some of the country’s largest and most respected NGOs, including The Pew Charitable Trusts.