Climate change is real and human activity is a major contributor. We do not have time to debate that fact when essentially all scientists are in agreement, and the potential harm is so devastating.

In California, we already see the effects of climate change in prolonged drought and extreme heat. And while El Niño brought us much needed drought relief, it was not enough to quench our years-long drought or to refill our depleted aquifers ahead of future dry years. We must prioritize the protection of our environment and transition to renewable sources of energy.

In 1962, President John F. Kennedy asked America to lead the world in the race to the moon with the Apollo missions. America needs a new Apollo mission, but this one to come up with and implement an all of the above strategy to wean ourselves off of fossil fuels and invest in clean and renewable energies at every level of our lives.

I am also committed to preserving open space in our region, and for more than a decade I have been pursuing the creation of a “Rim of the Valley Corridor” addition to the Santa Monica Mountains Recreation Area that would more than double its size. In 2016, following the completion of a long awaited study by the National Parks Service, I introduced legislation to make this expansion a reality and ensure that future generations can enjoy the incredible natural beauty of our region