I sent this, below, to the Sierra Club national Genetic Engineering Action Team, of which I am a corresponding member, having been a voting member of the predecessor to it, the Genetic Engineering Committee, for many years.

 

Let it be noted that it is to the enduring shame of the Sierra Club Iowa Chapter that we endorsed Vilsack for Iowa governor, not once, but twice, in 1998 and 2002. (I opposed the 2002 endorsement.)

Tom

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We need to watch what Vilsack says and does as Secretary of Agriculture.

 

If he lies about genetic engineering, we need to speak out at once and state what the truth is.

 

If he repeatedly lies about genetic engineering, we need to demand that the President replace him with someone who will tell the truth.

 

If he proves to be a shill for agribusiness and an opponent of sustainable and organic farming, we need to demand that the President replace him with someone who cares about the environment and the future; someone who can give us hope; someone who supports a locally produced, sustainable food system.

 

Maybe Vilsack will surprise us in a good way. But be prepared if he does not.

 

Tom