Congressman Ridicules Bikes as “19th Century Solution”
Congressman Patrick McHenry standing with an automobile, which, as it happens, was also invented in the 19th century.
The US House of Representatives approved an energy conservation bill on Saturday that includes, among other things, a tax break of $20 per month for bike commuters, which would take effect at the beginning of next year.
The vote on HR 2776 was largely split along party lines, and was preceded by inspired testimony from Congressman Patrick McHenry, a Republican representing the 10th District in my home state of North Carolina.
Here's McHenry, as quoted in the Congressional Record:
"A major component of the Democrats' energy legislation and the Democrats' answer to our energy crisis is, hold on, wait one minute, wait one minute, it is promoting the use of the bicycle.
Oh, I cannot make this stuff up. Yes, the American people have heard this. Their answer to our fuel crisis, the crisis at the pumps, is: Ride a bike.Democrats believe that using taxpayer funds in this bill to the tune of $1 million a year should be devoted to the principle of: "Save energy, ride a bike.'' Some might argue that depending on bicycles to solve our energy crisis is naive, perhaps ridiculous. Some might even say Congress should use this energy legislation to create new energy, bring new nuclear power plants on line, use clean coal technology, energy exploration, but no, no. They want to tell the American people, stop driving, ride a bike. This is absolutely amazing.
Apparently, the Democrats believe that the miracle on two wheels that we know as a bicycle will end our dependence on foreign oil. I cannot make this stuff up. It is absolutely amazing.
Ladies and gentlemen, I bring you the Democrats, promoting 19th century solutions to 21st century problems. If you don't like it, ride a bike. If you don't like the price at the pumps, ride a bike.Stay tuned for the next big idea for the Democrats: Improving energy efficiency by the horse and buggy."
So proud is McHenry of his witty remarks that he posted the video on his web page.
Like the man said: You cannot make this stuff up.
Stay in touch
Sign up for our free newsletter
More from Streetsblog New York City
Popular Fort Greene Open Street Fizzles After City Pulls Support
DOT reassigned its contractor, and this open street — which once hosted rollicking dance parties — is history.
Monday’s Headlines: Thin-Skinned, Anti-Restler Mayor Edition
Under fire for how he handled the storm, the mayor found a familiar target: Brooklyn Council Member Lincoln Restler. Plus other news.
Two Paths Forward: Broadway Shows What Could Be on Fifth Avenue
It's time to widen Fifth Avenue's sidewalks and add a protected bike lane. Delays hurt everyone.
CYCLE OF RAGE: Even Cheap Souvenir Plates Fool NYC Speed Cameras — And Piss Off an Out-of-Town Man
You don't have to be SEXY to fool New York City speed cameras. You just have to pretend to be.
We Have the ‘End of Days’ Flooding Pics You Need Right Now
It's bad out there. How bad? Here is a citywide roundup from our staff ... and our friends on social media.
