What's Al Gore's real motive when it comes to global warming?
FROM CNN's Jack Cafferty:
While Al Gore warns about the dire consequences of global warming, apparently one of those consequences is that he's filling his pockets - big time. The New York Times reports that few stand to profit as much from the green energy revolution as the former vice president does.
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Critics say he could become the world's first "carbon billionaire." They suggest Gore is profiteering by promoting government policies that would drive billions of dollars into companies he's invested in. Some say he's fattening his wallet by what they call alarmism and exaggerations about global warming.
Gore insists that he's just putting his money where his mouth is. He says his investments are consistent with what he's been advocating for years.
The Times reports that Gore has invested millions of dollars in environmentally friendly energy ventures; things like carbon trading markets, solar power, electric vehicles and waterless urinals. Actually - we could probably do without those.
The former vice president has also given away millions to a nonprofit he started and to another group focused on climate change. Plus he's invested in areas like technology and media with no ties to the environment.
Bottom line here: Al Gore is not a lobbyist, and has never asked the government for funding or a specific law that would directly benefit one of his investments. But, he has advocated relentlessly for policies that would get the country off using coal and oil... while investing in companies that could make this happen.
Here’s my question to you: What is Al Gore’s real motive when it comes to global warming?
Interested to know which ones made it on air?
Josh writes:
Better to profit from improving the environment than to profit from destroying people’s retirements the way that some financial organizations have. And he's been fighting for the cause for decades before it ever seemed that it could be profitable. As far as I'm concerned, he deserves those bucks.
Hans from Alabama writes:
Jack, You disappoint me. First, virtually all serious scientists agree on global warming. Secondly, evidence of the harm of global warming mounts every day. Al Gore is someone who has worked hard and tirelessly to warn us about the issue… It is a huge problem and it requires urgent and significant action. He is trying to advance the cause by investing in companies that may bring us solutions. He could lose it all or make a fortune. What are you doing about the problem?
Rick from Satellite Beach, Florida writes:
Jack, I'm really amazed that the Times finally realized this and even more amazed that they actually reported on this. As with most controversial issues, the old adage "follow the money" is usually a very good starting point in determining real intent. If Al Gore were truly being altruistic in his concern for global warming, he would not live in a McMansion and cruise the world in a Lear jet.
Mike writes:
Al Gore is a private citizen. He is also, like our society, a capitalist. He's making money? What kind of criticism is that? At least he is making money on something that will benefit our national security!
John from Michigan writes:
Jack, I'm here in Michigan, having endured two colder than usual winters in a row as well as two cooler than usual summers in a row. October averaged 10 degrees below normal. I would have to say Al Gore's motivation is a different kind of green, cold hard cash.
Annie from Atlanta writes:
I think the guy actually cares about global warming. It makes sense that he invests his money in what will be the wave of the future, if we clean up our act in time to actually have one.
@jackcafferty on Twitter
It's unfortunate, but in today's age the truth is we can't know the truth. Politicians on both sides have betrayed our trust...and congress is rife with people we wouldn't want to have over for dinner, much less running our country.
My personal opinion is Gore is a profiteer first and foremost. I believe he's got a sincere belief that global warming is a problem...but at some point one has no choice but to question the motives of a person that has positioned himself to earn hundreds of millions of dollars if the positions he has advocated are taken up in law. If Al wanted me to believe he was sincere, his first step would be to donate 90% of EVERYTHING he has earned and will earn in the coming years. That would still leave him with millions of dollars...more than enough for most all Americans.
If he wants to put his money where his mouth is – as he says – tell him to settle for living in the top 5% of all people in the world, but to donate everything above a $5 Million dollar net worth. That would hardly seem like a difficult decision for a man "So concerned for the earth and mankind..."
If Al Gore's real mission in life was to make the planet "green" and live a green life, he would have retrofitted his home in Tennessee long before someone poitned out in a viral email that George Bush's ranch was much more ecologically friendly than Gore's engery hog of a home. It has been reported that he has now made some green improvements in his home, but really that's not even the point. He sits on high, making judgement on how peolpe live thier lives, but when he gets challenged by someone who disagrees with him, he refuses to debate or even discuss that perhaps it's not anywhere as dire as he has made it seem. There have been several prominent scientists in the United States and in the UK who have challenged him on his film, but Gore refuses to meet with them. I do not know what his true intention is; whether it is to profiteer from this psuedo religous concept, or if he simply is putting his money where his mouth is, but I do know this; he is a hypocrete of the highest order. Apologists will simply state that the message is much more important than the messenger, but in Al Gore's case, they are both frauds.
Al Gores character is a running joke in many circles for good reason. If people would take a unbiased look at his life history they will find it is filled with half truths and exagerations. He has mastered the ability to act sincere and profit handsomely from it. When I have had the opportunity to listen to him speak I always feel like he is gaging the audience reaction to see if his B.S. is still fooling everyone. The thing is we all have run across people like him in life and dismiss them. How he gets away with it is beyond my comprehension.
Well at least he's not subverting our own EPA as Bush did regarding greenhouse gases and their affect on the environment and global warming. It seems to me that Bush and big oil has a lot to lose if Al Gore and the EPA can convince the American public that greenhouse gases do not contribute to global warming. At least Al is putting his money where he truely believes will benefit mankind the most.
While I don't believe that altruism really exists, Gore is probably as close as you can get. Certainly Gore is making money - he is very capable. Just think of how much more he could make if he followed Darth Vader's (aka Cheney) practices. You may think that he is being alarmist; he is actually soft-pedaling the facts.
Jim, Craig, CO
Jack –
We all got together a couple of years ago and decided to do things to keep you all busy 24/7. Al Gore promised he would stay on global warming (to keep you and others upset for years to come – is it working?).
We asked the republicans to let you all know what we're doing. Know what they said?
NO
HE SHOULD BE IN PRISON! He shouldn't be allowed to donate to non-profit organizations. It's unAmerican, especially if we wil greatly benefit from it. Americans don't just give their money away. They're selfish, & proud of it. America's motto: ITS ALL ABOUT ME. We all know how far we've come with THAT attitude. It's counterproductive. Wake up! Get with the program. Al Gore deserves every penny he has earned...ttimes 100,000,000,000. Thank you, Al Gore, for trying to rescue us from ourselves. We owe you our future.
Considering that Al came from a wealthy background to begin with, there were many avenues to becoming a billionaire already open to him. Investing heavily in non-existent, futuristic ventures centered on sustainable development, and spending the better part of his years on Earth trying to convince everyone who'd listen of the dangers facing the planet seems like a rather convoluted way to go about it. I think if Mr. Gore were as soulless and self-serving as the global warming deniers would have us believe, he would have simply invested his assets in oil and coal companies, and joined the likes of Glenn Beck and James Inhofe in proselytizing the criminal delusion that there will be no consequences for the catastrophic abuse we have inflicted on the Earth.
Living in the State of TN gives me a different outlook on what the former VP says and does. Mr. Gore is an okay speaker, but knows how to capitilize on his fame. I personally think that Mr. Gore is a huge hypocrit, since his mansion in the Nashville suburbs uses more electricity in one month than my house uses in at least 3-4 months. People will believe just about anything though if the person delivering the message comes across as believing what they say...Just ask all of the people that voted for our current president.
I think people should have listened to Al Gore YEARS ago. Use of Fossil Fuels is bad for the entire planet.
Alarmism affiliated with green technology investments.
Alarmism affiliated with Haliburton investments.
Take your pick. I would rather watch someone get wealthy while improving the planet rather than killing it.
He will probably pull a Timothy Geithner on us by making up stories about his big money making. He's just like one of the greedy corporate workers. "I am not bad with money, I just spend excessively and keep huge amount of money for myself, that's all." Idiotic don't you think? Jack, I got good things for you to air, but you don't put them up there. Please, air some of my comments.
Gore is ensuring that the dynasty continues. His children will be set and his grandchildren. He's being really sly by puting the information out there and wooing the American public to buy his spheil. The more he sells the more his investments make and he isn't involving government funding – yet. That will fall into place later,once everyone's hooked on this green need and want. Like subliminal advertising. Quite crafty.
Al is cementing his legacy and going for the glory... if we encounter and survive the more severe scenarios for climate change, in addition to making a few bucks, history will remember him as a pioneer and visionary...
Dallas, TX
I think his motive's have been clear he is doing this for the cause. Even while he was a senetor, prior to making these investments he advocated for more sustainable environmental legislation.
Is this what our world has turned into we are so skeptical that motives must always be self serving and profit based?
Mitch
-Milwaukee, WI
Jack
Al Gore is a politician first and foremost. He will not be doing this without there being something in it for himself. Also, I wonder if anyone has asked him about how much fuel he is using flying around the world on a private plane as opposed to a commercial airliner.
Paul from Phoenix, AZ
Is this question another misdirection in the Great Magic Show that's right wing politics? Let's talk about flag burning & gay marriage some more while the environment goes to hell. The issue isn't whether global warming exists. It's what's the time table left to do anything about it. I would be suprised if Gore didn't invest in the energy alternatives he advocates.
Jack,
Al Gore's enormous ego is what's causing Global Warming. If he could just reign that in a little, the icecaps would stop receding. His motive? Simple – It keeps him in the news.
He's just putting his money where his mouth is. Why wouldn't you invest in something you believe in. I don't see a story here. The story would be if he was investing in big oil. Sounds like the far right trying to make a story where one doesn't exist.
By the way, waterless urinals are a good thing, and no they don't stink. I'm guessing you aren't familiar with them, which is the only explaination for your comment.
Give me a break Jack. The Republicans have unabashedly used the revolving door of lobbiing and politics to cause GREAT harm to our environment and citizens for many years while fleecing billions, if not trillions from the hard working middle class. They desperately preserve the harmful old industries and fight against needed new and changing companies. Shoot the messenger and savior Al Gore because he is able to put his money in the future and benefit from it!
Who cares! and what i mean by who cares, lets say he is just trying to fatten his wallet, he is doing it by trying to create clean energy policies.Bush cost many lives fighting a war for family honor and oil(for which he deserves to face trial for war crimes because of all that died due to his greed and inability to fight his own battles). We have the technology to have clean energy sources that are good for the enviorment. whether or not we really are dealing with global warming is irrevalent. wind and solar power can reduce emissions drastically.
so I say who cares that he may be trying to fatten his pockets? Who cares if global warming is a definate reality?Clean energy should be a goal, not only becase it is very possible but because it is the right thing to do! I salute Al Gore for fighting the good fight !
Al Gore is a private citizen. He is also, like our society, a capitalist. He's making money? What kind of criticism is that? At least he is making money on something that will benefit our national security!
Better to profit from improving the environment than to profit from destroying peoples' retirement the way that some financial organizations have. And he's been fighting for the cause for decades before it ever seemed that it could be profitable. As far as I'm concerned, he deserves those bucks.
ain't it lucky for the former VEEP that he just happens to be making money hand over fist on a cause he just happens to be so passionate about. if only he'd been able to cash in on his development of the internet as well.
Somebody, somewhere has to do something, and if making millions convinces people that there is money to be made in doing the right thing, then the environment and the very lives of our great grandchildren will benefit. If Bill Gates or Steve Jobs or Mark Andreeson had not stepped up to the plate and invested their lives in computers and software then these advances to our society would still be the kingdom of basement engineers or large corporations, you would not be reading this for the technologies would not exist.
America is a land that loves its' entrepreneurs, and if Mr Gore happens to practice what he preaches it will motivate others to make the investment, invent the product, spearhead the revolution. It just might be that Mr Gore needs to become very rich for us to even notice that the right thing for society can be the right thing for each of us...
I think Al Gore is motivated by profit as well as a real desire to move our resource-wasting world towards a more symbiotic relationship with the environment, which makes him no different than every individual and company out there advocating for the green energy movement.
But that's a good thing, because the global environment we're in requires a profit motive to get anything done. So should we malign Gore for aspiring to make money from the green economy? No, we should applaud him for showing us all how it can be done.
I think he is sincere about his concern for "climate change" and not " global warming" as most refer to it. Big difference. However, that does not make him correct in his thinking. It just makes him convinced he is right and has taken it upon himself to make a difference. Right or wrong, a good cleaning up of this planet and a lot less pollution by industry will only help and not harm it per chance he is right. To say personal profit is his motive is merely a tactic used by those opposing him as a means of distraction from the cause and discrediting him to the point of dismissal. That he may profit from this in some way is probably very likely but is not his motive for doing what he is doing.
Thom Richer
Negaunee, MI
Jack – Who cares about his motives? The fact is that he was one of the very few who talked about this problem during the Bush years. Remember that guy? He told the country there was no such thing as global warming.
Should the U.S. place its faith in Afghanistan’s President Hamid Karzai?
Yes Jack, only if he takes a page out of Washington's hand book and appoints his brother "Corruption Zar" , now that will do it!
Jack I I just wish some one would have ask that question Of the last Administration On Iraq . Wich Hurt Ameria far more don't you agree ?
Jack I I just wish some one would have ask that question Of the last Administration On Iraq . Which Hurt America far more don't you agree ?
Ron San Antonio .
Mr. Cafferty,
If Mr. Gore was really truthful in his desire to have the government invest in new energy technology to help prevent global warming, don't you believe that he would set the example by putting his own money on the line? Oh wait, thats what he has been doing! The problem is that If he wasn't investing in those companies you would probably attack the former Vice-President for not putting his money where his mouth is.
I thought Al Gore's real motive was to find ManBearPig......or was South Park lying to me again?
Nate – Grand Rapids, MI
I think his motives are to do two things that are absolutely ethical and realistic: he is trying to wean us away from our dependence on foreign oil and oil-based technology, and in doing so is investing in businesses that HAVE those goals with the hopes of making money. Oh, yeah, it's easy to accuse former VP Gore of lining his pockets on the back of the the green industy, but I happen to believe he is correct in saying that he is only putting his investments where his beliefs are. If only more of our business people thought the same.
Why are you not decrying former President Bush for making money as a "motivational speaker" – the President most known for his verbal gaffs and boring speeches? Why aren't you pointing out that former VP Cheney is making money hand over fist in his position as advisor to Halliburton? They are not investing in anything, putting their futures at risk if their investments do not pay off. They are simply continuing to make money by riding on the shirttails of their 8 despicable years as the leaders of this land.
What I really want to know is when you became a shill for the GOP, Jack?
Al Gore has planned this from the get-go, He knows he is in the inner circle in regards to the democratic party and he knows he has their backing all the way.Consequently he has positioned himself to profit from his connections. The democrats in power will send everything his way, will give him tax breaks noone else will get and will give him first shot at everything that could make him millions and millions off of their policies.
Philadelphia. PA (land of Gov. Ed Rendell most forward thinking environmentalist governer in the country)
Give me a break Jack. The Republicans have unabashedly used the revolving door of lobbiing and politics to cause GREAT harm to our environment and citizens for many years while fleecing billions, if not trillions from the hard working middle class. They desperately preserve the harmful old industries and fight against needed new and changing companies. Shoot the messenger and savior Al Gore because he is able to invest his money in the future and benefit from it!
What is Al Gore’s real motive when it comes to global warming?
I think it's pretty obvious: to stop global warming.
If Gore was actually serious about his commitment to lowering CO2 emissions how come the administration, that he was part of, did not ratify the Kyoto agreement? How come all the companies he invests in all work under the motto of "consume more (but green)" and not consume less which is what the planet really would need.
Erik, Emmaboda, Sweden
Status. Fame. But mostly money. And he's in the unpleasant position of wanting to spend it on energy-driven things like huge houseboats and gigantic extra homes without appearing to be the hypocrite he is.
To stop America from being the biggest crack head of oil, we are slaves to these middle east country, who can pull our chain when ever they get ready. And like a good, dog, America kneels before them, and gets our soldiers killed to protect their oil. The right will say anything they can to keep us addicted on oil since they are heavily invested in it, them and the Military Industrial Complex!
The real question should be why does the right refuse to fight for an Energy Independent America! why won't they support Real Renewable Energies.
We the people have to rise up against the very fact that this is part of THE NEW WORLD ORDER... The mainstream media is not reporting truth on what the globalist are really doing, and that is to control society now they are charging to breath natural air! What kind of world do we live in humanity is in danger political figures selling propaganda while main stream media is selling this bs to the AMERICAN people and it's unfortunate that they are buying it! The planet is going to through its normal cycle of nature and to all of sudden tax me for breathing! Plants and humans release CO2 gases everyday how can this fact alone be overlooked....? We must start looking into what are elected officials are really doing for us, it's just no corporate owned media will ever report it...
I think it's alarmism and he's completely in it for the notoriety and money. The planet has experienced multiple ice ages and radical climate changes throughout it's history. Scientists do not agree on anything conclusive, the climate has been shown to be cooling over the last decade, and public opinion about global warming being a serious threat has dramatically went down over the last 5 years.
I'm all for trying to do what's best and I agree that it's better to be safe than sorry but we all need to take a step back and wait for all of the research to be in before we completely destroy our economy.
I think the proof is in the fact that Gore's electric bill at his mansion in Tennessee used to be higher than most hotels. His "documentary" should have been called "A Convenient Half Truth".
Global warming? I thought Al Gore created the internet..lol Hes on the right track, global warming is destroying the planet. As far as his motive my guess would be, just wanting to live here a little longer.
Duh! What do you think his motives are? I knew the answer to that questions YEARS ago. I'm suprised it's just being asked now.
If he didn't invest this way you would call him a hypocrite. Give me a break!
Jack, a politician with a conscious would certainly be Headline Media News!
More likely, Al Gore is simply striving to remain in the spotlight during the twilight of his public career.
After receiving Oscar and Noble awards, its time for Gore to pack up his tent and let genuine Ecologists bring their message to the masses.
Back to your multi-million dollar mansion Al Gore.
A. Smith
Oregon
Now this is funny the right has made trillions off of cheap oil, and now when we are on the verge of freeing ourselves for the drug dealing oil dealers, here comes the Republicans crying about people making money on green technology! I invest in green technology is that wrong too, oh I get it only the right should make money on energy not Independents like my self, or Democrats! Just the greedy right! Right?
Money, that is why he keeps promoting the myth of man made climate change, there is plenty of science that says man made global warming is a lie. The earths temperature has droped over the last 9 years.
If you learned that Shakespeare had written his plays just to make a buck, would that make them any less powerful and timeless? I don't really think that metadata, if we had it, would make a shred of difference.
I think we can all agree that, other things being equal, taking care of the environment is better than not taking care of it, and so Gore's impact on the world is probably a net positive. If that's the case, then it hardly matters why he did it. So not only is it impossible to say with any certainty what motivates Al Gore, but I think it's essentially irrelevant.
Al's motive is obviously trying to head off man made global warming. To think he is in this for the money is wrong. Maybe a side effect of investing in green by putting his money where his mouth is, is a good thing. He's not muffling the EPA's reports as the Bush White House did, with their obvious intention of not harming big oil's profits where Bush / Cheney have their financial interests.
I really doubt that Al Gore is care more about climate change than his own pocket books. He has yet to address his errors that has been discovered by British judge.
Something sneaky, like trying to save the planet. You can't trust these tree-hugging lefties.
Terry DeLoughary
Bark River, Michigan
Money! Scientists follow the grant money. The more grant money for global warming, the more scientists are going to follow the great rip-off of the taxpayer. Just 20 years ago, they were talking about the Earth's climate switching to an ice age and now they talk about the climate getting warmer. Scientists and so-called climatalogists don't know enough about how the climate works to have more than a vague theory about what is going on. The earth's climate has gone through many different changes over the 4.5 billion years and will go through many more. Our being here isn't going to stop what is going to change, we can only stop the polluting not change the climate. WE ARE NOT ALL POWERFUL!!!! and should stop acting like we are.
Al Gore has pulled off the greatest hoax ever devised. I guess we shouldn't be surprised that this was done by a politican!
Fad science scaremongering spouting his theories as facts = TONS of CASH to 'save the planet'.
I'm over forty and have heard so many popular apologetic 'science' IE if we don't do 'A' than 'B' WILL happen. When B does not they have to 'rethink' their theories, rinse and repeat.
After all science has 'never' been wrong on a grand scale. Noooooo never ; )
I believe he is sincere in his beliefs. The income from his book and movie is rewarding, but he is giving millions of it away to organizations he believes can help the world. Regardless of what you may think of global warming, research and development of alternative sources of energy can only help reduce our dependence on dwindling oil resources.
Jack!
Al's wife Tipper, once told us that Frank Zappa and Twisted Sister were threats to this country! Who knows what his real motive is? As long as it's not "reconquista" for iIllegal aliens, I'm not worried about him.
Rory Murray
San Bernardino,CA
He is putting his money where his mouth is. Someone has to invest in this stuff. If he wasn’t investing in the green industry I assume the critics would ask why he isn’t. At this point the companies he’s investing in are essentially startups not making much if any profit, I would suspect, and probably wouldn’t exist but for his investment in them. You say “could” in many places in the run-up to the question. Yes he COULD make millions eventually or he COULD lose it all too. The party of NO and the coal and oil lobby sure aren’t doing anything to help the country go green. We only get one chance to get in at the beginning of a new industry and more people should invest in these companies and see what happens. If you don’t and they take off and make millions or billions, don’t complain, you had your chance.
I think he's being honest. It's not wrong to invest in what you believe in, nor to promote it.
He's doing what politicians do best: looking out for their own wallets.
The only difference between Gore's support of the 'green revolution' and Cheney's deals with Haliburton, is that Gore's trying to help wean us OFF crude oil...
His primary objective is Money. His secondary objective is Money. His third objective is “THE REST OF THE MONEY”.
I think he just wants to make the world better for his grandchildren and great grandchildren, etc.
He's against it . . . ans so am I.
Gore has done nothing to reduce his own carbon footprint. What he has done however is to increase the size of his wallet based upon unproven science.
What has Al Gore to gain, well based on his background and his focus about our planet and the United States, most likely a Nobel Peace Prize.
It's his passion for God's sake.
Maybe he is doing what we all should be doing
"Putting his money where his mouth is"
Jack –
Al Gore's motive is simple: opportunism. God bless him, but he was simply looking for a way to remain relevant while out of office . . . politics is in his nature, and maybe he still sees himself as one day becoming the POTUS??
Once health care and the deficit are tackled, the next biggest campaign issue is Oil and the environment.
My two cents anyway.
Al Gore's real motive is the future of our planet, sure he may be profiting from this, but that is not why warns of the consequences of global warning.
Asking about Gore's planning if future for the 40 years that he has been involved in these issues sounds like Pres. Obama's mother planning for him to be President when she put those birth announcements in the Hawaii papers. I didn't hear any questions about the many politicians that wrote legislation and invested in the oil and gas industry for years!
Yo Jack, It' all about the Benjamins. Politics at it's best.
Al Gore knows that none of us will prosper if we do not stop global warming. He knows we will all prosper if we switch to green, renewable energy.
Jack,
How about you ask Al Gore?
Rather than asking the masses to speculate on his intentions.
It is true he makes money. But, I don't think that is the motive behind his passion to bring awareness on Global Warming.
The extreme right wing now has another weapon to attack him. Whatever happened to 'what is wrong with making money' argument?
–Paul
I think his motive is to show that "going green" can be good for both the environment and the economy.
He's investing in alternative energy because he knows that's the future. He sees these investments as both profitable and good for the planet. I see nothing wrong with the fact that the biggest advocator for climate change legislation is investing in the companies that will lead us to a cleaner future.
sounds like Al is in a "damned if you do; damned if you don't" situation with his investments. If he puts his money in fossil fuel companies, he's a hypocrite.
Definitely profit. If it were otherwise, his house would be energy efficient.
I don't care what his motive is. What he's saying makes a lot of sense. Why shouldn't we use green energy? It makes sense to me. If he'll get rich off of it, then fine. Using green energy seems to be the smart thing to do.
You can't win for losing when you back a cause you feel passionately about. I agree with VP Gore. He is just putting his money where his mouth is. Let's do a news piece on what government contracts benefited VP Cheney and all his cronies after invading Iraq. Not to mention all the waste of money on equipment that was deliberately blown up etc. In the meanwhile our men in service did not have safe water to shower in. Let's do more investigation on all that!!
Jack, you disappoint me. First, virtually all serious scientists agree on global warming. Secondly, evidence of the harm of global warming mounts every day. Al Gore is someone who has worked hard and tirelessly to warn us about the issue. We have ridiculed him as a tree huger, environazi etc. etc. His interest in and support for reversing global warming has been consistent over the years. It is a huge problem and it requires urgent and significant action. He is trying to advance the cause by investing in companies that may bring us solutions. He could loose it all or make a fortune. What are you doing about the problem?
Hey Jack.....how many millions does Vice-president Cheeny makes with Haliburton. That is a company that does war. I for one like Green much better!
$$$ He is as Phoney as the Baloney he eats. On second thought, as Fake as the Fillet he eats.
Rick Wertz from Satellite Beach Florida
Jack,
I'm really amazed that the Times finally realized this and even more amazed that they actually reported on this. As with most controversial issues, the old adage "follow the money" is usually a very good starting point in determining real intent. If Al Gore was trully being altruistic in his concern for global warming, he would not live in a McMansion and cruise the world in a Lear jet.
consequences, political issue, marketing and sure money
Catia
Brainerd, MN
Jack I think all those critics should just shut up! Al Gore has advocated for global warming for a long time. We all can see the drastic change in our climate with late summers. He's doing a good thing so people need to just lay off!!!!
Money, the almighty political motivator. Al Gore is a fraud. In his movie that I was forced to watch in order to pass a class, he states that he was aware of global warming in the 70's. If that is so, why was I taught that we were heading for another ice age??? And why is it that when I call my friend in New Hampshire and ask her opinion of global warming, she laughs hysterically and tells me about the 3 feet of snow on her yard that has been there for 5 months. Besides, anyone who spends $30,000 a year on electric is a hypocrite! He gets away with it because of his rich and famous friends that have influence on the country. The man is a politician and a fraud! End of subject.
I think the guy actually cares about global warming. It makes sense that he invest his money in what will be the wave if the future, if we clean up our act in time to actually have one.
Improving the environment Jack. This man stood alone (except for a few scientists) trying to persuade us of what is now obviously happening to our planet.
Al Gore has stepped up as a leader in the global warming movement. While he might not be 100% correct on his theory, he should be credited for at least raising awareness that something is happening with world climate and promoting new, clean energies that can be produced in America rather than depending on foreign oil.
I will take the high road. Could it be something as simple as the fact that Al Gore cares about our planet??
While he's saying he's putting his money where his mouth is, isn't he putting his mouth where his money is? If it were really a heartfelt cause, he'd have his money in blind trusts, so there could be no question about his motives. Unfortunately, he was on the green bandwagon when he had the ability to influence policy directly as Vice President, and anyone who doesn't think that he doesn't have persuasive influence in this administration's policies is naive. I'm all for green, but, unfortunately, the motives of those who benefit most from the mad rush that this has become, leads a sane person to question whether this isn't just another shell game played to line the profits of the politically connected. Bottom line, I don't know Al Gore's real motive, but it doesn't matter, he's just another money grubber looking to put himself ahead and nothing he says should be trusted.
I think Al Gore has only the best intensions for his crusade to wake everyone up to Global Climate Change. He's been at this long before he became Vice President. Anyone who spends 20+ years on a subject tends to become a valuable commodity. Unfortunately we are still surrounded with Climate Change nay sayers who have enough say to hold back any real change.
Cathy in Alabama
This entire "global warming" thing is ridiculous. The earth has actually been COOLING for the past 9 years. When the liberals have to actually CHANGE THE NAME of their scare tactic (global warming is now being called "climate change"), red flags should go up all over the place. This is nothing but a money making ploy-both for the UN and the political leaders in the US that push for the cap and trade. Anti-capitalism abounds.
If Mr. Gore were not to invest in green-friendly companies, you would say that that sends a message as well. This is the news media trying to discredit an honourable intention purely for the purpose of manufactring a story.
I think that Al Gore acted consistently. Calling for green policy and putting his money where his mouth was–in green technology. Without green investment we would have no solutions. He was ahead of the game, and like others that are ahead of the game, he will profit from it. If his policy recommendations had not been consistent over time you might have something to be concerned about, but he has been consistent.
That's wave of the future, not if the future. Sorry.
Jack –
As 'Deep Throat' wisely advised Woodward & Bernstein when Watergate was unravelling – "follow the money"
Al Gore never got over the fact he did not win the 2000 presidential election. His ego & thirst for power are so strong that the best approach he can now take is the accumulation of massive wealth (Billions with a 'B'). Money equals power, respect, and attention – this will fulfill his needs & he will stop at nothing to achieve it.
Al's just a good salesman, who knew. He is telling you why you need the product that he has invested in and you have to decide if you are ready to buy. No pressure, you just control the destiny of the planet.
Gore is using his gift to sell. He's a good advocate for the environment and a notable philanthropist, who care's if makes a few bucks doing what he does best, its the american way!
i think he's gone the way of the future
and he's trying to show us the path.
Al Gore is an alarmist profiteer fat cat in pig's clothing. His science is deliberately misleading and faulty at best. The groups he invests in seek to push cap and trade policies and further radical environmentalist agendas that drive his personal fiscal agenda indirectly and covertly. Put a fork in him!
The environmental issues are real; and we crossed the line long ago. We will never be able to fix this; and the longer we wait, the more it will cost to reduce the impact. The issues are tightly related to economical forces all around us.
What is Al Gore’s real motive when it comes to global warming?
I don't care. He started with a good cause, and if he benefits from it, even better – he'll keep at it because he is motivated; economics matter. Whatever it is, it is better than individuals investing heavily in models that damage the environment.
Remember, "we didn't inherit this world; we are borrowing it from our children" (some smart middle eastern proverb).
al gore is just like all politicians in that it is all about their wallets and not about the good of the country. i wish we could vote someone that would think about the country not their wallets
It's about time you guys (CNN) start reporting on this story, instead of blindly following stories from anyone who is anti-Bush! His homes and travel leave larger foot-print on the earth than several American families (ex-president Bush has a very "green" ranch home in Texas), yet he tells us to cut back!
Jack,
Why is it news and morally questionable if a Democrat makes money and American when a Republican does? Are you talking about T. Boone Pickens profiting from natural gas and wind farms as he preaches that we get off foreign oil? (I do agree with him though). Are you talking about Cheney, Bush and company making money if we stay on it?
I think Gore is a believer and if he makes some money, so what?
Pat
Fairfax, Va.
I think Al Gore is simply committed to the transformation of a greener world. I would find it odd if his investments were in big oil or other environmentally unfriendly markets. I think it is absurd to think Mr. Gore’s motivation is merely to profit from what he feels so strongly about. Besides, what would his investments be worth if the world chokes to death?
Al Gore's real motive is to save the Earth from cataclysmic climate change that is ALREADY occuring, and to save stupid climate deniers from themselves. He asks for nothing in return. He deserves a Nobel Peace Prize every year for his altruistic, unappreciated efforts.
Hey Jack the only thing I want to know is what are the companies is Al Gore invested in. He bby far was one of the brightest men in the Senate!He was also smart enough to get out of politics. I agree with his assessment of Global Warming ,as do most thinking peoplr.
I'm a bonified Republican, but the facts are the facts. Mr. Gore has been consistent for the last 18 years when it comes to Global Warming and the enviroment. He has not hired lobbyist, nor has he been on Capitol Hill trying to urge lawmakers to pass bills on removing oil and coal from the picture. The farthest he's gone was to speak to a committee that specializes in global warming. I watched that telecast, and not once did he ask for a dime. So what if he's invested in companies that have the same agenda as he. Mr. Gore has used the media well to get his message across; and like many others, what's wrong with that?
$ enough said.
I believe Al Gore may possibly be doing more harm than good. One case in point it the malaria problem in Africa (Uganda is especially hit hard). Deet is no longer allowed. More people die each year from mosquito borne illness than all other insect and animal afflictions combined with malaria being number one on the list. I cannot say whether or not Al Gore's motives are selfish (you stated the millions he is making) or very benevolent. Nevertheless, common sense needs to prevail.
Jack, have Americans become so disillusioned with government that we cannot trust an honest politician trying to do an honest job? The media would be all over him if he did not invest in green companies as a hypocrit. He is trying to do something that he believes in and that will help improve America's future. Being CEO of Haliburton and Vice President would be a much easier way to make a fortune than trying to do something good for the nation.
He's against it . . . and so am I. Regardless of which side of the warming – no warming debate a person may be on, we need to face the reality that we need to do things differently – starting now. Nothing,,,,nothing proposed in the subject area of preventing global warming hurts anyone.....oh, except maybe the big profiteers who control the largest, greediest corporations. What do they think is going to happen? They amass a brazillion dollars, die in luxury, leave their estate to their heirs.....who have to deal with an even more screwed up planet? Make no mistake...we don't need to save the earth....we need to save the humans.
Jack
If Al Gore had investments in big oil and big coal, you'd be labeling him a hypocrite. So what exactly is your point?
Were else would Al Gore invest his money Nike Sweat shops, Wallmart, or something he believes is a benefit for everyone. His ability to make money and invest in nonprofit and alternative energy is another reminder of how we all got screwd in 2000.
Al Gore is an alarmist profiteer fat cat in pig's clothing. His science is deliberately misleading and faulty at best. The groups he invests in seek to push cap and trade policies and further radical environmentalist agendas that drive his personal fiscal agenda indirectly and covertly. Put a fork in him!
Clint Cetti
Atlanta, GA
Let's just be glad that alternative energy is a money maker!! I think al gore is in it for altruistic reasons, so if he makes some money, good for him
If Al Gore didn't invest in green technologies, his critics would be crying "hypocrite.” Let’s face it, there will always be those who criticize anything Al Gore does, especially if it makes complete sense, is good for the world, and is profitable for all. What these critics should be doing is investing in clean technologies themselves.
-Doug in Baltimore
Al Gore is trying to save the world from global warming. If he makes huge profit Great he deserve it. After Bush and Dick lied, distoried USA for huge profits we need someone who makes money and save USA thats AL gore.
Al Gore is a smart investor! The new energy policies are taking us away from Big Oil! No one would think twice if a person had stock in Exxon!
Wind and Solar are the inevitable and anyone getting in now is smart. I am excited about electric cars. Green Building is providing a way to live with minimal energy. These are the blue chips of the future!
Save the world – and himself.
RP
Oulu, Finland
Looks to me as though the guy sincerely cares about the environment for the future of this country and the world for future generations. He is certainly more believable than his primary critics, Hannity, Limbaugh and Beck. They readily admit that they don't care about such things and then there is the hard evidence of science which supports Mr. Gore.
My take is Al Gore has finally found a purpose in his life - he failed at politics then won acclaim for global warming. Why not invest in business that works in his favor. From a personal standpoint, Al Gore has always been fingernails-on-a-blackboard to me; I dislike being talked down to - he has a snotty way of preaching like the rest of us are imbeciles. But, net-net his cause can only improve life on our planet.
His real motive is wanting peace of mind that one day his children, grandchildren or great granchildren wont be on a planet Earth that finally implodes or explodes. If he had the insight to see that "Green" is where the World would need to go in order to save our Earth and he invested in entities that would profit from the populations Earth saving measures, then good for him- it's not like he's highjacking Americans wealth through fake wars and house of card derivitives now is it! Good for Gore and GO GREEN- green is our industrial revolution; many people stand to capitalize- it may be the biggest opportinity for America to get back to work.
Money and this is not a new issue. There have been people for at least five years noting that he was set to make a mint off of his agenda. I think in the years to come we will look back and realize that global warming was the biggest scam of our era not Bernie M.
Do we need to conserve and live our lives more ecologically friendly????...absolutely. However what is being done in the name of "global warming" now rebranded to "climate change" is way out of line.
Jack,
Al Gore's motives are some of the most noble to come out of Washington. The only reason he is being attacked is because Republicans have found it very hard to argue with the 99.9% of scientists who are making the very same arguments about the costs of climate change. I remember when he was criticized for having a large house, rather than a small eco-friendly one. He putting his money where his mouth is, and if he wasn't then he would be criticized for not backing up his stance.
Al Gore served this country for forty years. He EARNED the Nobel Prize. Now he's "putting his money where his mouth is" Thankfully, this benefits the common good in contrast to the executives of Goldman Sachs. When Goldman invests more in the American environment, no Republican should criticize Gore.
Kate Dayton
His motivations are genuine. He didn't spend half of his life fighting for something in the hopes that maybe in a couple decades the right wing party of "no" might possibly finally allow him to make a profit. He's a smart guy, if his motivation were to make money, he certainly knows easier ways to do it.
Jack:
Get a life! Stop looking for dirt – some would say he's putting his money where his mouth is.
Daryl,
Tobermory Canada
Jack,
He has been trying to get the government to do something long before he was Vice President. He tried to affect change from within the system. He discovered the hard way that changing the government policies from within won't work. Now he is trying to affect change from the outside. He has been more effective working from the outside and addressing the population of the world about global warming than anyone else.
Do I think he has a ulterior motive? Yes, he wants to get the human race up off its collective butt to address this problem before we cause our own extinction. Of course with all of you media types obsessed with supposed 'balanced' reporting you would rather say he is trying to get rich quick with a hoax. I've got news for you, I'm a Republican, I'm a biologist, and I'm working on my masters in Environmental Studies... Global Warming is real, it is happening and if we don't do something drastic soon there won't be an economy, jobs, civilization, or even humans left to worry about Gore making a few bucks.
Luwanna Guysville Ohio
Your question should be " what could possibly motivate HIM to continue to educate and inspire us to save the planet in spite of his having to deal with the cynical media at every turn?" The answer is simple. He wants our children and grandchildren to have a planet and environment equal to or better than the one this generation has created due to our need for material gain and instant gratification. Give me... and him.. a break! We and future generations owe him our eternal thanks!
Finally we have a hero. One man, Al gore, has the guts to stand up to special interests in the best interest of the world in an attempt to stop a potential global enviromental crises. Al gore is avoiding the temptations of greed to stop a deadly trend created by the over use of oil and coal..Al gore is a politicain I trust and believe he fully is working hard to prevent a disastor without selfish intentions.
I just listened to a report that meat production contributes more to global warning then all the cars, planes and trains. Mr. Gore is a big beef eater. Add that to flying around on his private plane and I am going have to say he is a fraud. I think he is in it for the money and fame. You have to agree hat he is getting a lot of both.
There's no hidden agenda with Al Gore. He already has money and power, so why would we even think there is a hidden agenda. Let's accept it for what it is. Al Gore is one of the great thinkers of our time.
John
Albany, NY
Eat meat, fly in Gulf Streams, Live in huge 20 room energy guzzling home, and make all the money I can on this false issue!!!
Big Al got a half billion dollar U.S. government grant he sent to his new investors in Finland to build electric autos in Finland.
You know what Jack,
I think he's practicing what he preaches. I was impressed by those facts you just stated. It looks like he actually cares about the issue of climate change and I would disagree with his detractors. We all know money is power, and to accomplish big things, you need big investments. So you can't blame him for trying to forward his agenda through profiteering. That's ludicrous! His money is where his mouth is, and I applaud him for it!
Jack -
Al is proving a few things with his investments. He's proving his theory about the profitability of "green" energy and that his plans work . He's proving that he knows what he's talking about and he's proving it with his investments paying off. He's also proving that the republicans are wrong when they say that he didn't deserve his Nobel recognition. They're the same group who have recently demeaned the President for winning the Nobel Prize, Their denial of Gore's warnings about global climate change is born in their political affiliation, not the "human affiliation".
Hey Jack!, You forgot!...It's not 'Global Warming'...it's 'Cimate Change'...this way, Algore can make money as long as the climate does what the climate always does-CHANGE.
Hi Jack:
Al Gore wants what every con-artist wants, wealth and power by deception.
Al Gore is trying to help us save ourselves from making this earth unihabitable. I don't care if he's making a mint on the Green Economy. Maybe if green stocks go up, that richest 1% will actually start to believe not only in profits but in global warming.
Undoubtedly, fossil fuel profiteers (and the conservatives opponents of clean energy in their pockets) will try to make a huge deal out of this. But honestly, what does it matter? People (especially conservatives) have done exactly the same thing with Halliburton in Iraq. Also, I am sure that people lobbying for off shore drilling stood to make a killing off oil profits. The cause Al Gore is working to promote is one of the most worthy ones of our time, and frankly, It really doesnt matter to me if he makes some money on the side. He certainly is more deserving of it that the other people who make money from promoting certain issues. He is not a lobbyist, but people treat him as if he is a second Jack Abramoff. Give the man a break!
I think he is great and he is only trying to make this world a better and safe place to live...
Looking forward to hearing him speak in Boca raton Florida nov 14th Mizner Park
Go GORE
Poul B
Even if he isn't in it just to make money Al Gore is still one of the most hypocritical political figures of the modern day. Let's not forget his gas and electric bills were 20 times the national average in 2006. That's the inconvenient truth.
Once again Mr Gore has hidden the truth behind his millions.... Let's not forget that Wendy Graham de-regulated stocks and finances on her last day in charge of the CFTC under Gore and Clinton before she went to work the next day at ENRON – a BIG Energy and Clean Energy Company of which Gore was heavily invested- Many would wonder how did he get the heads up to bail on that company before it went south – How much of that company was jointly owned by the People's Republic of China – today's votes will show America is running from the Facist and Communistic ideals introduced by Clinton and Gore and now carried out by Obama – China has backed Gore and the Environmentalist movement to Shut Down America's Industries to manufacturer in their country with Slave Labor and Poluting worse than any country – is this the cost of a Clean America.
It's ironic that Henry Ford profited from his revolutionary ideas as well, in the form of the automobile and the assembly line...and contributed by way of cars and factories to the problem that has earned Gore so much in the last few years. I'm all for innovation leading to wealth, but many of Gore's theories and statements have been disputed by scientists and climatologists. Stick to the facts and leave the scare tactics to the two major political parties.
Al Gore is just a Con Man Criminal
He is on the ground floor of carbon credits, which is a new tax and form of control for De-industrialization of America.
He has spread propaganda for his own profit!
Why are 30,000 scientists including the founder of The Weather Channel suing him for false statements?
He stands to make BILLIONS!
Stop believing the Fraud and Lies of Gore!
Carbon Dioxide is a building block of life, not a toxin!
Capitalism is what made America great. If Al supplies something that the people demand, he should be rewarded. Companies made a killing from trying to kill our planet, it may be a welcome change to have some profit from healing it.
Al Gore, is absolutely correct on his opinion on global warming. We all need to listen and see what's going on in the rest of the world, not just in this country.. What will it take for Americans to realize that this is a global crisis. One example is the way global warming is affecting people in the Himalyas. They're wondering how their going to raise the food they need to survive. Wake up America this is a universal problem that is and will affect us too. Thank goodness for Mr. Gore.
Honestly Jack, I'd prefer if you left this kind of nonsense to your competing networks. Never the less, here is my reply: Is Gore profiting from Global Warming? Sure, as are many others. If I had the cash to invest in the same companies he's investing in, I would. Why doesn't the news media focus more on de-bunking these ridiculous anti-health care-reform commercials that are paid for by people and organizations that make OBSCENE profits by poisoning and killing Americans?
This feigned expose is just another way for the nay-sayers of Global warming to find an excuse to bolster their selfish motives for ignoring the crisis. They are the people more interested in the cost to industry and investor's profits than the future welfare of our planet. It make sense to me that Al Gore would put his money where his mouth is, and be willing to invest his own money in a cause he believes in. It's not like he is the only person on the planet who is alarmed at the pace of Global warming. Just about any credible scientist on the planet will tell you that it is indeed real, and we are in peril if we don't do something to arrest it. Enough already! Give poor Al a break. He's devoted his post-political life to a great cause, when he could have made a more immediate fortune doing many other things. He also could have won the last presidential election.
This just disgusts me. Huge profits should ONLY be made by those promoting dirty coal and oil dependence or pollution-causing "technologies". No one in the U.S. should be able to make any money off of something that makes sense and improves the world!!
Al Gore is investing in future generations. I look forward to hearing him speak here in FL later this month.
here in texas , anyone elected to public office goes in poor comes out rich ,enters has money comes out of office with more money
most politicians care only about their bank accounts
Damned if you do and...it figures in this climate(no pun intended) if you follow what you preach AND it is to the good someone is itching to smear you. I have invested my meager investments in green technologies as a moral choice first and hope it blossoms for the betterment of all, unlike investing in Halibuton and other war stocks. Gore has been on the environment band wagon for decades, whay else would you expect him to purchase, oil stocks? He is a decent man with great moral track record Thank you.
Also, don't forget what this politician did. He fought the tobacco industry knowing it was the key industry for his survival in his own state because it was a killer (and had already affected his life – his sister did die of lung cancer). This man is true to his cause(s), and I am happy he is making good money in it. Smart man.
Climate change maybe be a green issue, but Mr. Gore has turned it into a gaggle of golden geese. When he decides to drive an electric car, reside in a solar heated house with a sod roof and turn off the lights , then I'll believe its not all about the money. We should not focus on the former VP, but the close people around him who may or not be so righteous.
Al Gore along with the rest of us have a responsibility for the planet in which we live on and do more to preserve it. I myself have always wondered how the earth maintains itself despite everything we've done to destroy it, somethings got to give.
Al Gore is interested in leaving a legacy to the world, a legacy
of caring for others and the environment.
He has always been well-to-do. He has always been
generous with his time and money in helping others.
As a congressman, a senator, and a vice-president, he
has been a remarkable public servant.
Global warming is real and Al Gore is helping to wake
up the world before it is too late!
Tucson, AZ – Same as mine – saving civilization from its own stupidity. The warming itself has been an accepted fact of climate science for more than thirty years. The CO2 hypothesis was first published in the late 1920s. Over the past two decades, data have been collected that prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the observed warming is caused by the increasing proportion of CO2 in the lower atmosphere due to combustion of fossil fuels. If we burn all the fossil carbon we can dig up, we will restore a climate with sea levels inundating the Mississippi valley and with a complete absence of land and sea ice. None of this has anythng to do with Al Gore – he is just a journalist with a political career who has noticed this problem and is trying to do something about it. If he makes money from stopping global warming, so much the better – it means that we can make the change and still have a strong economy. The opposition is stupid, short-sighted, and narrow-minded – they don't know the facts, they don't inderstand the physics, chemistry, and economics, and they defend the status quo based on fear and a short term cost-benefit analysis that is just worthless.
Al Gore has become very rich because of the hysteria he promotes over so called "manmade" global warming. (Notice how "global warming has now morphed into "climate change?).
There is no scientific consensus that manmade global warming exists, yet the compliant media promotes the Gore religion of "climate change". I don't doubt that Mr. Gore believes what he says, but it is interesting that he doesn't walk the talk when it comes to his own behavior (large energy consumption at his homes, uses private jets, large houseboat, etc). Of course, he is also in this for the money. If he can get his buddies in Washington to push a punishing "cap and trade" bill, he and the guys at GE will benefit big time. Al Gore has made a whole lot of money off his the hysteria is promotes and that our schools and media are promoting.
Jack,
Al Gore has about as much interest in the actual environment as I have in needlepoint (none). Anyone who cannot see that he is only interested in fattening his bank account is absolutely blind. He is an arrogant charlatan who has no respect for dissenting opinions, even though they contain legitimate scientific FACT. He had to be reminded that his own home was terribly inefficient after he started shooting his mouth off. What is his ACTUAL carbon footprint is...how often does he fly? Does he drive a Prius, or does he get chaufferred around in a limosine? I think we know the answer, and I wish the world would just stop paying attention to him. He's one of the biggest liars that exist today.
Steve S
Clover, VA
The real question is what is the New York Times' motive for writing such an article at this particular moment? It seems like little more than a vulgar distraction.
The message coming from the NYT is fairly clear – "Focus on fine-print and inconsequential vagaries while our masters on Wall Street continue to render your planet uninhabitable."
I am an astute investor on Wall street. Al Gore has 14 companies listed on markets, owned by his daughter and a few have other family members. He has made Millions on these "Green" Wind and solar companies. I guess that is a good reason to spend millions $$ to get elected and then find a "cause" to make life easier.
I can list those compies listed on markets if you would like.
TJ
Ontario, Canada
PS I made a little $ on him as well.
To have the 'capacity' to do whatever it takes to get the job done. The way it is today, capacity means money. If he can show money made by investing in green energy can be substantial, then why not? His millions made thus far come no where close to what the oil companies and bank execs make. If he is to have a snowballs chance in hell of succeeding, he must outpace those in terms of spending capabilities of those who oppose his agenda.
If Al Gore is considered as "benefiting" from his own well-recognized, and world-accepted viewpoints, by investing his own money in technologies that he, as well as most of us ,believe in, then lets hack up everyone that does the same, such as Warren Buffett, for doing the same (i.e. investing in green tech). At least Al DOES put his money where his mouth has been for decades, unlike most ex-pols. He is leading by the example that most with any investments left to work with should do.
It looks like there is no way Al Gore can escape criticism. What would the news organizations be saying if he invested his money in coal or oil? He would be the worlds biggest hypocrite. I think this means he is honest and puts his money in businesses that he promotes. I know honesty in a politician is not what we expect, but I don't think we should complain about it either.
Mountain Home ID
Aloha Jack,
People make huge profits from wars, alcohol sales, fast food chains, cigarettes, etc...all which can kill you, quickly or slowly. We're going after a guy who might profit from something that will benefit us all and future generations as well?...Wow, I gotta think about this one. In the mean time I'm gonna have a whiskey, drive down to McDonalds and have a smoke on the way and go to my NAR meeting!
global warming !!! nobody knows for sure records have been kept for 200 yrs. the earth is 4.5 billion yrs old that billion not hundred nobody knows what happening exept the world has warmed 1 degree in the last hundred yrs thats hunderd yrs
Jack,
Is there supposed to be some bizarre implied equivalency between Al Gore investing in clean energy companies and Dick Cheney while Vice President deciding energy policy with a roomful of Oil executives ?
I just put in a call to my cable company. I turned to the channel I thought was CNN, but I seemed to have gotten Fox news. Shame on you, Jack !
I believe Al Gore is sticking to this global warming, because he is making a lot of money with it. He has gotten the "respect" with Nobel Prize. He will make even more money with Goldman Sachs on new derivitive funds earnings with the carbon credit system. This is the same thing that happened with the bad mortgages. So we skip down this merry road and the rich get richer.
He will not debate anyone who has a different take on global warming, and just spouts the line. What will happen is that WE WILL PAY THE HIGHER ENERGY COSTS RELATED TO ANY CAPS. HE IS NO DIFFERENT THAT ANY OTHER "CAPITALIST" HE HAS JUST LEARNED HOW TO SELL OUR FUTURES.
It just proves snake oil salesmen can make a little money too. Maybe I would think more of him if he traveled around the country in a hybrid or electric car instead of a G-5 and a convoy of suburbans. When his convoy rolled from the airport here to the local university last year I figured his caravan burned enough gas to drive me to work for 4 months. Yet I need to give up my ride.
Al Gore is a very nice guy. It's too bad that the Media has to tear down any Democrat that is doing good for our Country. I have never heard anything about the big rich oil man that made millions on oil, then is now touting the big windmills. Be fair, tear the Repubs down too.
I believe Al Gore's motives are for the purpose of saving our Earth and mankind. I'm 74 years old, raised in east-central Illinois, and I remember still my teachers' concern for conservation of our soil and water. During 14 visits to my daughter and family from 1976 to 1994, I saw how rapidly the Portage Glacier outside of Anchorage was receding. Air polution isn't much of a problem here on the front range, but it was in northern Utah, where I lived from 1976-2007, and in Germany 1971-1976. Those who oppose Al Gore have something to lose.
Jack,
Simply, "it all about the money, honey."
Al Gore brought attention to global warming world wide! So what if he is investing in what he believes in. Leave him alone. Let's get back to the real issue and that is to solve this world wide global warming problem, period.
Orlando, Florida
Seems very simple to me. He believes in global warming and wants to educate the world about it. And as an American, wants to earn a profit for doing so. I'm surprised you're even proposing the question.
David Jones
Canada
Why is it that the people that scream about global warming are the ones flying around in private jets and living in mansions? They scream that I, in my modest home, should change my light bulbs and stop driving my Taurus? What a joke! They are hypocrites.
Motive ?
To stop global warming
Im not sure what Al Gore's motive is,but in 20 years we could have another dust bowl of the 30s or in 20 years we could have the begining of a new ice age,I beleive the climates going to do what its going to do no mater what.
Reversing the damage done to the planet by fat cats who decided that as long as they were making money, it didn't matter that the sludge they were dumping in our rivers and streams was killing us and the planet.
It does not really matter what is motives are, seeing as people already have all these ideas about what the his motives are. I mean Gore has been whining about global warming long before anyone gave a hoot, but because he has invested in his ideas and is fighting for what he seems to believe it must be greed! I hope Mr Gore his trying to make a difference and help this country move towards better future. I would say why not ask him the question directly and take him at his word you know that whole "Innocent until proven guilty" thing.
AL Gore does it for the money, period! He backed a car company called Fisker Automotive that just got $529 million dollars. Friskers top investors include Kleiner, Caufiel & Byers a Silicon Valley Venture Capitol firm of which AL GORE is a PARTNER. Employees of this firm have donated 2.2 million to political campaigns mostly Democrats. NICE RETURN ON $2.2 MILLION INVESTMENT $529million and this is just one company. How many more firms is Al a partner in that are receiving money?
Check out entire story on WallStreet Journal written by Josh Miller and Stephen Power
He is a real Pioneer – cant wait to see him LIVE on STAGE in Boca Raton Florida nex saterday...
Have you ever asked why NASA is retiring the Space Shuttle??? Before it was called Global Warming it was called a hole in the ozone – The rocket systems that are used on the Shuttle system BURN Ozone!!! Gore is against Coal and Fossil Fuels – driving down the value of these products so that China can buy them up around the world and stock pile them – a True Super Power that can take over the world has to have the largest supply of these Raw Materials – the Earth Goes through cycles and we are in one – the hole in the ozone is actually allowing gases to escape and the Earth to cool too fast – it can send us into an Ice Age – if you have a Green house that is sealed it will absorb the sun's heat and maintain it – put a hole in it and you loose you heat – part of the Earth's cycle at this time is increased Geo- tetonic plate movement which means an increase in Natural gases and heat from the Earth's Core – Al Gore has it wrong!
The people who lobby against the climate bill are big oil and coal. And they do have lobbyists and they have a vested interest in no bill passing. So, who's calling the kettle black?
Al Gore was trying to get Congressional Hearings in the '70s when no one ever heard of Global Warming. He put his career on the line before even liberal Democrats supported environmental reforms. Jack, leave the mud slinging about a war hero and great public servant for the ultra-conservatives.