Sierra Club throws weight behind Udall

The Sierra Club endorsed Sen. Mark Udall (D-Colo.) on Tuesday, throwing its political muscle behind the incumbent.

The group’s backing could potentially hold some weight for the tight race, which could be key in determining control of the Senate.

{mosads}“Coloradans need a leader like Sen. Udall who will protect our beautiful state and develop our clean energy economy. We are proud to lend him our support,” said Becky English, of the Sierra Club’s Rocky Mountain Chapter.

The green group touted Udall’s record of backing environmentally-friendly projects, support of national parks, and work to boost clean energy jobs in Colorado.  

“Senator Udall also has a consistent track record of protecting air and water quality for Colorado families, including supporting the national Clean Power Plan, which will reduce greenhouse gas emissions and curb toxic air and water pollution,” English said.

The group blasted Udall’s Republican challenger Rep. Cory Gardner (R-Colo.), whom the club called “recklessly anti-environmental.”

The group criticized Gardner for his denial of climate change, support of fossil fuels, and past votes for bills that would have stymied climate policies.

The group added that Udall would be the best man to strike that balance between natural gas production and regulating fracking in Colorado.

In August, Udall said he would strive to find a balance between developing natural gas as an alternative energy source and protecting public and environmental health during a fight between top Democrats over possible anti-fracking ballot measures.