The U.S. House took a historic step to address America's economic, energy and climate challenges by passing the American Clean Energy and Security Act. Although I don't agree with them most of the time, Reps. Paul Hodes and Carol Shea-Porter both made the smart and bold choice to vote in favor of legislation that will unleash investment in clean energy and, for the first time, put national limits on global warming pollution.

Focus on energy and climate legislation now moves to the Senate, where the debate will become even fiercer. At this critical moment, there are several compelling reasons why our senators should work to strengthen and pass it. Most important, this legislation will jump- start our economy, create jobs, reduce energy costs and improve long- term national security.