James Hansen: Prophet or Last Week's News?

Does NASA’s James Hansen Still Matter in Climate Debate?, NY Times
“Last week, House Democrats who supported the bill appeared less than enthusiastic about Hansen’s recent advocacy. Asked whether Hansen wields influence, House Science and Technology Committee Chairman Bart Gordon (D-Tenn.) said, “I think he has an opinion.” Rep Rick Boucher (D-Va.), who was a key player in the passage of the House bill, called Hansen’s appearance on the Hill “irrelevant,” adding, “the debate about the science is over.” Markey said Hansen held “moral influence.” But, said the co-author of the House cap-and-trade bill, a carbon tax simply cannot win enough votes to make it through both chambers of Congress.”