Sen. McCain’s (R-Ariz.) running mate pick, Gov. Sarah Palin, is a proud evangelical conservative who questions anthropogenic climate change and evolution.
In January of this year, she questioned climate models that show the threat of extinction of polar bears due to the loss of sea ice:
In fact, there is insufficient evidence that polar bears are in danger of becoming extinct within the foreseeable future — the trigger for protection under the Endangered Species Act. . . The possible listing of a healthy species like the polar bear would be based on uncertain modeling of possible effects. This is simply not justified.
Following the decision to list polar bears as a threatened species in May, Palin chose to file suit to overturn the listing. She argued:
We believe that the Service’s decision to list the polar bear was not based on the best scientific and commercial data available.
In a Newsmax interview released today, Palin questioned the science of manmade global warming:
A changing environment will affect Alaska more than any other state, because of our location. I’m not one though who would attribute it to being man-made.
This position is in opposition to the global scientific community, the leaders of every nation on the planet, and her running mate.
Similarly, Palin is an advocate of teaching creationism in opposition to natural selection:
Teach both. You know, don’t be afraid of information. Healthy debate is so important, and it’s so valuable in our schools. I am a proponent of teaching both.
In an interview with the Anchorage Daily News, she said “I won’t have religion as a litmus test, or anybody’s personal opinion on evolution or creationism.”