Obama Admin Sticks With Bush Polar Bear Policy

In a decision that has environmentalists up in arms, the Interior Department says it will not seek to change a regulation from the George W. Bush administration that limits protection of the polar bear from global warming.

Green groups have argued that greenhouse gases released into the atmosphere from power plants, factories and cars threatens the bears' survival. But Interior Secretary Ken Salazar says that although greenhouse gases should be reduced, the Endangered Species Act should not be used to combat global warming.

Alaska Governor Sarah Palin applauded the decision by the Interior Department:

"This is a clear victory for Alaska," Governor Palin said. "We all want to preserve and protect the polar bear using the best possible tools, but there is absolutely no need to change the 4(d) rule to accomplish this purpose. I want to thank Secretary Salazar for his careful review of the science and the administrative record that led to this decision."

The governor and Alaska's bipartisan congressional delegation has argued strongly for keeping the Bush polar bear rule in place.

Update: Jim Geraghty obviously couldn't resist the temptation to post this:

"Attention Mainstream Media: Interior Secretary Ken Salazar has decided to keep the Obama administration's position on polar bears in line with that of Alaska governor Sarah Palin. Please calibrate your demonization campaigns accordingly."

- JP