Letter: Candidates showed up

A consortium of eight local environmental groups held a forum last week for Lincoln and Lancaster County candidates running for the Nebraska Legislature. Of the 11 candidates invited, six participated: Caitlin Knutson (District 2), George Dungan (District 26), Patty Pansing Brooks (District 28), Janet Bock (District 30), Shay Smith (District 32) and Danielle Conrad (District 46). Thanks to them for their time and effort to prepare for and attend the forum. The candidates shared thoughtful views about environmental stewardship and how it would affect their work in the Legislature. They talked about how they would address specific issues facing Nebraskans today, such as changes in our weather, data centers, nitrates in water, use of Nebraska Environmental Trust funds, tree canopy, native prairies and goals to reduce carbon pollution. Audience members did not ask questions during the forum but had ample opportunity to talk with the candidates in the reception that followed. What are we to think about the candidates who did not make the time to participate? If elected, would they commit to being good stewards of our environment and make it a priority? The quality of our environment is not a partisan concern, as it affects the lives and livelihoods of all Nebraskans, regardless of political affiliations. Voters have a right to know where the candidates stand on issues that threaten our environment and the opportunities to improve it. I recommend voting for those candidates that cared enough to show up. Mark Nicholson, Lincoln Get opinion pieces, letters and editorials sent directly to your inbox weekly!