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Feb. 9, 1969
February 9, 1969
Muskie calls environment a “top priority”
President Muskie laid out an ambitious and extensive plan to tackle environmental pollution. While some have questioned his mandate, Muskie believes that bold action is needed, calling for “an Environmental Revolution.” Muskie explained that the environmental revolution “must be one of laws, not men; one of values, not ideology; and one of achievement, not unfulfilled promises.” [1]
Muskie has an impressive record on behalf of the environment. Muskie’s devotion to the cause has earned him the nickname "Mr. Clean."[2] In the Senate, Muskie was the chairman of the Subcommittee on Air and Water Pollution, where he championed environmental legislation such as the 1963 Clean Air Act and the 1965 Water Quality Act. [3]
Muskie envisions the creation of a Department of Conservation, which he had proposed as governor of Maine in 1954. [4] This new department would "have jurisdiction of forestry, inland fish and game, sea and shore fisheries, mineral, water, and other natural resources" while also "administering an anti-pollution program." [4] This new department would be dedicated to environmental protection, and would bring the Atomic Energy Commission into the fold.