Global warming "debate is over" according to Schwarzenegger

California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger told a United Nations conference that the threat from global warming was real, and that California was going to lead the fight.

"I say the debate is over. We know the science, we see the threat and we know the time for action is now," he said. (AP via Yahoo)

While Schwarzenegger did not announce many specific new policies, he did state that he would move ahead with greenhouse gas emissions standards for automobiles starting in 2009, despite the Bush administration's siding with automakers against California's standards.

If automakers lose the fight in California, the road to hybrid cars will be clearly paved. The battle against foreign oil dependency has moved from the federal government to the state government of California and the Gov. is in a position to accomplish what the federal government has been unable to accomplish for decades - responsible fuel efficiency.

While that is not the goal of the California legislation, it will inevitably have that effect.

Governor Schwarzenegger has a tremendous opportunity to lead America regarding important issues such as global warming and energy independence, let's hope he takes advantage.

If he terminates his Hummer soon, I might become a true believer.