U.S. House Representative John Shimkus (Republican-Illinois), who has opposed cap and trade legislation because he believes God will not allow the earth to be destroyed by global warming, is running to become the House Energy and Commerce Committee chairman.

In 2009, at a congressional hearing on cap and trade legislation, Rep. Shimkus said, “The Earth will end only when God declares it’s time to be over.  Man will not destroy this Earth.  This Earth will not be destroyed by a Flood.”  This week in an interview with Politico, Shimkus reaffirmed these views:  when asked about climate change he stated once again that God will not allow the world to be washed away in a flood.

Watch Shimkus’ statements at 2009 Congressional hearing:

Shimkus has also called an energy bill incorporating cap and trade measures for carbon emissions as the “largest assualt on democracy and freedom in this country that I’ve ever experienced.”  His position on carbon emissions includes the belief that reducing carbon dioxide will be detrimental for plant life.

The House Energy and Commerce Committee oversees legislation related to issues including the supply and delivery of energy, public health, and air quality and environmental health.  Three other Republicans – Rep. Joe Barton (Texas), Rep. Fred Upton (Michigan), and Rep. Cliff Stearns (Florida) – are seeking the chairmanship of this committee.  Upton is considered the favourite to win the position.

Read the full story at Raw Story: ‘God won’t allow global warming,’ congressman seeking to head Energy Committee says

Image credit: Illinois Channel