Meaning: The quote by Ted Kulongoski, a politician, addresses the issue of global warming and criticizes the Administration's decision to walk away from the Kyoto Treaty. The Kyoto Protocol is an international agreement aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions and combating climate change. Kulongoski's statement reflects a belief in the urgency of addressing global warming and highlights the importance of policy decisions in addressing this pressing issue.

Kulongoski's assertion that "global warming is real and it is here today" underscores the scientific consensus on the existence and impact of climate change. The overwhelming evidence from climate scientists supports the idea that the Earth's climate is undergoing significant changes due to human activities, particularly the emission of greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide. The consequences of global warming, including rising temperatures, extreme weather events, and sea-level rise, are already being felt around the world. Therefore, Kulongoski's emphasis on the reality of global warming serves as a call to action for policymakers to take meaningful steps to address this critical issue.

By stating that "the facts aren't the issue. The policy is the issue," Kulongoski draws attention to the importance of implementing effective policies to mitigate and adapt to climate change. This viewpoint aligns with the understanding that acknowledging the reality of global warming is not enough; concrete actions and policies are essential to address the root causes and impacts of climate change. Kulongoski's emphasis on the policy aspect reflects the recognition that political decisions and actions play a crucial role in shaping the response to global warming.

Furthermore, Kulongoski directly criticizes the Administration's policy on global warming, stating that he believes it is "dead wrong." This highlights a significant divergence in viewpoints between Kulongoski and the Administration regarding the appropriate approach to addressing climate change. The disagreement over policy reflects broader debates about the role of government intervention, regulation, and international cooperation in tackling environmental challenges.

The reference to the Kyoto Treaty in Kulongoski's quote is significant, as it was a landmark international agreement aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The United States' decision to withdraw from the Kyoto Protocol in 2001 under the George W. Bush administration was a highly contentious and widely debated move. Kulongoski's criticism of the Administration's decision to walk away from the treaty reflects a perspective that prioritizes international cooperation and collective action in addressing global environmental issues.

In conclusion, Ted Kulongoski's quote succinctly encapsulates the urgency of addressing global warming and the importance of effective policy responses. His assertion that "the facts aren't the issue. The policy is the issue" underscores the critical role of policy decisions in tackling climate change. Additionally, his criticism of the Administration's policy on global warming and the reference to the Kyoto Treaty highlight the significance of political decisions and international agreements in shaping the global response to this pressing environmental challenge.