Editor’s Note: The Maine Chamber of Commerce declined to comment on President Trump’s decision to withdraw from the Paris climate accord and Gov. Paul LePage’s office did not respond to a request for comment on Thursday.

“Climate change requires a global approach. I’m disappointed in the President’s decision to withdraw from the Paris agreement.”

— Tweet from Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine

“Withdrawing from the Paris Climate Agreement is a mistake of historic proportions, putting our country and, indeed, our entire planet at risk. Climate change is the most serious and pressing global challenge of our time, and it will only be blunted by a coalition of nations working in partnership. This is a short-sighted and irresponsible decision, which future generations will neither forgive nor forget.”

— Sen. Angus King, an independent from Maine, in a statement

“In Maine we already see the harmful effects of climate change – rapidly rising temperatures are causing higher rates of tick-borne illness, warming oceans are threatening our economy by causing fish and lobster to migrate, and rising sea levels are jeopardizing coastal communities. Walking away from the Paris Agreement is perilous for America, Maine and our future.”

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— Rep. Chellie Pingree, D-Maine, in a statement

“We should have sensible environmental policies that offer practical solutions to protect our planet and that enhance our economic growth and our nation’s competitiveness. These priorities are not mutually exclusive and America should continue to be at the table to shape these discussions. I urge the White House to take a new look at this issue with America’s best interests in mind and in the spirit of working with our world partners on protecting the environment.”

— Rep. Bruce Poliquin, R-Maine, in a statement

“President Trump has promised from the beginning to put America and American workers first. By freeing the United States from the Paris Climate Accord, President Trump is freeing taxpayers from ridiculous and unproductive foreign policy agreements. Maine GOP places a lot of value in protecting the environment, but understands the need for balance. We are behind President Trump as he continues to put America first and we look forward to his future efforts to improve the economy and create jobs.”

— Maine Republican Party, in a statement

“President Trump’s decision to withdraw from the Paris Climate Accord is a global embarrassment. At a time when the world is looking to America for leadership, President Trump and the Republicans sit on their hands ignoring both the best interests of our planet, and real opportunities for job creation, innovation and economic growth.”

— Maine Democratic Party Chairman Phil Bartlett, in a statement


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