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The Energy Innovation and Carbon Dividend Act that was introduced in Congress and recently promoted in these pages by Nancy Gerth is a shining example of the stupidity of “the swamp” in Washington, D.C., and anyone that has faith in it. The “carbon fees collected” (read that gas and oil taxes) will put money back in the pockets of low and middle income Americans? Really. Who do you think pays these taxes (and their consequences) in the first place? That’s right — lower and middle classes. The government won’t “keep any of the fees collected?” You really believe this? A whole new arm of bureaucracy will need to be created to manage this program. They won’t manage it inexpensively. A significant portion of the 2.1 million jobs to be created mentioned in Ms. Gerth’s endorsement could be administrative positions for this program that produce nothing and regulate everything.

If you want to see a preview of the potential impact of this bill take a look at what’s currently happening in France. Seven-dollars-a-gallon gasoline to satisfy Mini-Macron’s obsession with climate change. Riots in the in the streets of Paris for days. Macrons’ solution — delay the taxes for six months. Good call, Opie.

In regards to the more than half of Idahoans who believe in climate change? Was there a box on the ballot in November about this issue that I missed? It’s hard to take such a claim seriously unless there has been a referendum on the issue.

JEFF JOHNSON

Sandpoint