Congressional Intimidation

It appears as if the Republicans in Congress are spending their time wisely, attempting to intimidate and discredit several prominent climatologists because of their roles in the climate change debate. Judging by their responses, it does not appear that the scientists are particularly intimidated.

Rep. Joe Barton, Chair of the House Committee on Energy and Commerce, recently sent letters requesting "information regarding global warming studies."

Responses have come fast and furious:

• A statement from the EGU


• The American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)


• A Nature editorial


• A letter from US scientists


• A letter from the head of the National Academy of Sciences


• A commentary from Tom Crowley in EOS


• The House Committee on Science and Henry Waxman


• Response of Michael Mann


• Response of Ray Bradley


• Response of Malcolm Hughes

Full discussion of the matter can be found on RealClimate.org:

Many in the scientific community would welcome any genuine interest in climate change from the committee, but the tone and content of these letters have alarmed many scientists and their professional organisations. In the words of Alan Leshner, CEO of the American Association for the Advancement of Science, the Barton letters "give the impression of a search for some basis on which to discredit these particular scientists and findings, rather than a search for understanding."

-- from RealClimate.org