Polluters' pawn
First of all, mock and belittle those who believe in climate science. The newest term, "warmist alarmist," and variations of it are so weak that right-wing spinmaster Frank Luntz seems to be running out of insulting phrases to use.
Second, shoot the messenger. Scientist Peter Gleick "crossed an ethical line" in an "undercover mission" by using a false name to get documents from the Heartland Institute, a pro-pollution propaganda outfit funded by the Koch brothers. Yet, stealing thousands of emails from a university in 2009 was merely "a leak," and Mr. Kelly continues to selectively quote from those old stolen emails, even though multiple investigations showed no scientific misconduct.
Third, deny the most damning information. Among the documents Peter Gleick received was a plan to have climate change denial taught in schools, much like the strategy to teach the "controversy" about the evolution of species. Mr. Kelly accepts without question Heartland's claim that this document was a "clumsy forgery."
Finally, ignore the evidence right in front of your face. In just the past few weeks, we've seen in the Post-Gazette, "Meek Winter May Last Awhile" (Feb. 2); "Let It Snow (Please?): Ski Resorts Hoping the Rest of Winter Is More ... Wintry" (Feb. 5); "Winter, Where Is Thy Sting, So That I May Enjoy Spring" (Feb. 11); "Lack of Winter Weather This Season a Plus for Many" (Feb. 19); and "Pollen Detected in Air Is Earliest Ever Recorded" (Feb. 25).
Will any amount of evidence make Jack Kelly realize he's being used by the big polluters to protect profits?
MIKE USMAN, M.D.
Indiana Township