Clean Energy California Targets Assemblymember Baker in SB350 Social Media Campaign

Clean Energy California today launched a social media advertising campaign targeting key California legislators who have been featured in ads promoted by the oil industry in the battle over SB 350, climate change legislation sponsored by State Senate President pro Tem Kevin De León.

The ads, which began today on Twitter and Facebook, mock the ads placed by the oil industry group, “California Drivers Alliance,” a project of Western States Petroleum Association (WSPA), that also are running on social media. The oil industry ads call for readers to “Help Assemblymember {LAWMAKER’S NAME} Vote No” on Senate Bill 350, the Clean Energy and Pollution Reduction Act. SB 350 would cut petroleum use, increase renewable energy in electricity and increase energy efficiency in existing buildings.

The Clean Energy California ads instead play on the WSPA ads, posing the question, “Will Assemblywoman Catherine Baker ‘help’ the oil industry?” and call on Californians to sign a petition supporting SB 350 (De León), and SB 32 (Pavley), a separate measure that would set long-term carbon pollution targets.

“We found it ironic that the oil industry, with its multi-billion dollar profits and record of pollution, is calling on Californians for ‘help,’ said Steve Maviglio, former
Communications Director for the No on Prop 23 Campaign, the oil industry’s 2010
attempt to repeal the state’s landmark climate and clean energy law, and a consultant to Clean Energy California. “The choice for these Assemblymembers is clear: help the oil industry or help improve our air quality and the fast-growing clean energy industry by supporting SB 350 and SB 32.”

Maviglio said WSPA made a “significant” advertising buy targeting key legislators.
Assemblywoman Catherine Baker (R-San Ramon) is the first target of the ads.

Courage Campaign is proud to partner with Clean Energy California on this effort to hold legislators accountable and support this vital legislation.

Follow Clean Energy California on Twitter at @CleanEnergyCA. Like them on Facebook at Facebook.com/CleanEnergyCA.