Call to Stop Arctic Drilling (momentum among House Republican moderates)

[candice]

From a letter to Audubon that was passed on to me:
Audubon Leaders:

Last week I was in Washington DC lobbying against drilling in the Arctic
National Wildlife Refuge. I am writing today to let you know that I believe
we can win this critical vote in the House Thursday, Nov. 10th, to keep
drilling in the Arctic Refuge OUT of the House budget reconciliation bill.

I am encouraged that there is growing momentum among House Republican
moderates to keep the Arctic out of the reconciliation bill. Our Audubon
lobbyists tell me that today the Republican leadership lacks the votes pass
the budget reconciliation bill in the House with the Arctic language
included. A new letter urging Republican leadership to pull the Arctic
language from the budget reconciliation bill went out today from Rep.
Charlie Bass (R-NH) and 25 other moderate Republicans. Moderate Republicans
are telling their leadership in writing and in private conversations that
they do not want to chose between passing budget reconciliation and drilling
in the Arctic Refuge. Together our hard work and determination to save the
Arctic Refuge is paying off!

The news is very promising today, but remember that Republican leadership on
Thursday, Nov 10th, will promise, cajole and generally do whatever is
necessary to win this vote-- even hold a usual 15 minute vote open for hours
while they arm twist. That's why I am asking for your help immediately.

Please call the Washington DC Capitol switchboard at 202-224-3121 on
Wednesday, Nov. 9 or Thursday, Nov 10 and ask to speak with your member of
Congress or phone their district offices if that is more convenient. Your
simple message: I am a constituent and I am calling to urge the congressman
(or congresswoman) to vote against drilling in the Arctic Refuge. That is
what needs to be said, and it is so critically important. (If you have
questions contact Mike Daulton, our lead Arctic lobbyist, at 202-861-2242
ext. 3030 if you need any further information.)

Thank you for your past efforts on behalf of the Arctic Refuge over many
years. You and I won't be in Washington DC this Thursday when the budget
vote is taken, but our calls will very well make the difference between
drilling on the coastal plain and saving this irreplaceable treasure for our
children and grandchildren.

John Flicker