I appreciate the attention to Representative Nolan's track record ("Time to Wake Up," Jan. 11 Reader Opinion). I agree with the writer that things are often more complicated than they seem, and that Rep. Nolan is accountable to all of us, with our widely varying views. As someone who has personally met with Rep. Nolan, I can vouch for his integrity and his commitment to seeing
the issues for what they are and finding solutions that everyone can live with. Recently, a national third party (Vanderbilt University) singled out Rep. Nolan as one of the 10 most effective Congressmen. One of the top 10 among 535-no insignificant rating, especially when we consider that Rep. Nolan is a minority party member in a Congress whose recent infamy arises from its inability to accomplish anything. No matter how much we care about an issue, and no matter how close we are to our own legislators-if they don't have the relationship skills, the determination, or the know-how to accomplish anything in Washington-then we are out of luck. I consider us lucky citizens. If we can convince Rep. Nolan of the worthiness of our cause, something might get done about it!
I am a member of a local chapter of the Citizens Climate Lobby, a bipartisan volunteer organization dedicated to advancing carbon fee-and-dividend legislation that buoys rather than stifles local economies. So I am particularly excited about the possibility that Rep. Nolan will next take on the task of working with fellow Republicans on climate solutions, like Rep. Gibson, who has shown courageous leadership in addressing climate change and the need for workable solutions.
Katya Gordon
Two Harbors
