ANALYSIS-California governor race key to U.S. climate change

[OKIsItJustMe]

http://www.forexyard.com/en/news/ANALYSIS-California-governor-race-key-to-climate-change-2010-02-24T204253Z-US

ANALYSIS-California governor race key to U.S. climate change

Friday February 26, 2010 05:42:20 AM GMT

SAN FRANCISCO, Feb 24 (Reuters) - California's governor race is shaping up to be a referendum on the most aggressive U.S. plan to cut greenhouse gases in a vote from the trend-setting state that could hobble such efforts nationwide.

The state is a hub for investment in "cleantech", which could be at risk with any policy change, and has a governor and senior congressional representatives who have led President Barack Obama's push for a U.S. climate change law.

The face-off to replace Republican Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger in November offers a clear choice on the issue, which for many will come down to whether laws on climate change help the state lead in new 'green' industries or drive firms out of business or out of state in reaction to higher costs.

"It's a pivotal race, certainly for California, but for the rest of the country" too, said incoming Sierra Club Executive Director Michael Brune, echoing the thoughts of many businesses in the U.S. state with the largest population and economy.

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