Illinois Midterm Elections Clear Path for Ambitious Environmental Standards

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – The results of yesterday’s midterm election will impact the way Illinois addresses major environmental issues. Illinois’ new political landscape should signal the state’s emerging leadership on clean energy and public health policies.

Following is a reaction from Karen Hobbs, senior director of Midwest advocacy for the Natural Resources Defense Council’s Center for Policy Advocacy:

“Illinois’ midterm elections have created a clear path toward setting some of the most ambitious environmental standards in the state’s history.

“Governor-elect J.B. Pritzker’s commitment to the environment and clean energy suggests that Illinois will take a lead in addressing the country’s most pressing environmental challenges. That kind of state leadership is more important than ever, as a new U.N. report urges swift, bold action to tackle climate change—and the Trump administration is moving us backwards.

“A new administration should mean new hope for communities that want a cleaner, healthier, and more prosperous Illinois, especially those that are struggling with the worst impacts of pollution and dirty industry. We look forward to working with these new leaders to build a better future for all Illinoisans.”

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The Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) is an international nonprofit environmental organization with more than 3 million members and online activists. Since 1970, our lawyers, scientists, and other environmental specialists have worked to protect the world's natural resources, public health, and the environment. NRDC has offices in New York City, Washington, D.C., Los Angeles, San Francisco, Chicago, Bozeman, MT, and Beijing. Visit us at www.nrdc.org and follow us on Twitter @NRDC.​

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