Robert L. Ehrlich, Jr. letter to S. R. and T. N., April 17, 1998

ROBERT L. EHRLICH. JR. 2o District. Maryland COMMITTEES BUDGET INKING AND FINANCIAL SERVICES ASSISTANT MAJORITY WHIP Congress of tfje Unite!) States Дншбе of ScpreSentattoeS ©Hagfttngton, DC 20515-2002 April 17, 1998 Dear Thank you for communicating to me your views regarding the League of Conservation Voters’ (LCV) attempt to score my voting record, as well as my record on environmental issues. Since coming to Congress, I have taken an independent approach towards environmental issues. I have not been afraid to oppose my party’s leadership when I felt its proposals would prove detrimental to the environment, especially the Chesapeake Bay. For example, I was one of only 34 Republicans to oppose a controversial GOP clean water reauthorization bill. As long as I serve in Congress, I will continue to give each environmental issue to come before Congress the thorough, balanced, and multi-dimensional scrutiny it deserves. Moreover, anyone who understands the manner in which I approach my congressional duties knows that I place no faith whatsoever in attempts by groups such as LCV to compile arbitrary, one-sided assessments of my voting record. Nor do I respond favorably to attempts by special interest groups or constituents to bully or cajole me into voting a certain way by threatening to withhold support for me in a future election. I came to Congress in 1995 pledged to vote my conscience and do what is best for my constituents. The fact that my constituents overwhelmingly reelected me in 1996 reassures me that they strongly support my independent, measured judgement towards these important issues. In fact, I actively encourage anyone who does not like the votes I have made on these or other issues to support my opponent in the next election. Once again, thanks for sharing your views. Very truly yours, — Robert L. Ehrlich, Jr. Member of Congress