The battle against climate change in the United States is no longer exclusive to Democrats. In the past, Democrats were known for their focus on environmental issues, attracting votes from their own party members and independent voters by emphasizing efforts to address global warming. Now, Republicans, traditionally associated with President George W. Bush, may also prioritize climate change in their election campaigns. This shift could distinguish Republican presidential candidates from the policies of the Bush administration, which have alienated the U.S. from other major developed countries. Former Republican National Committee Chairman Ken Mehlman believes that climate change has the potential to garner support beyond party lines. After losing control of both houses of Congress in 2006, Republicans are in need of help. According to Mehlman, the party lost in 2006 because independents shifted away from them. In order to regain the confidence of independents, Mehlman suggests focusing on climate change as an issue that aligns with conservative values. Economic conservatives, who are typically Republicans, see technological solutions as a means to generate wealth and employment opportunities. Some corporate leaders support a federal carbon emissions limit to avoid conflicting state laws. Religious conservatives view reducing carbon emissions as part of caring for the environment as a divine responsibility. National security conservatives believe less reliance on foreign oil would weaken anti-U.S. groups. The current administration opposes the Kyoto Protocol, arguing that it would disadvantage the U.S. if countries like China and India were not required to comply. Republican Senator John Warner is leading the way in Congress by co-sponsoring a bill to limit carbon dioxide emissions that contribute to climate change. Senator John McCain, who is currently the front-runner for the Republican presidential nomination, previously sponsored a climate change bill. This bipartisan effort is also supported by former Republican Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee, who is now running for president and has emphasized the importance of taking action to address climate change, despite lacking specific plans. In contrast, former Massachusetts Governor [name not provided] has not been as vocal on the issue. Mitt Romney emerged victorious in the recent Republican primary in Michigan, a state where his father once served as governor and home to the Big Three automakers. He criticized McCain's backing of increased fuel efficiency, arguing that it would negatively impact the U.S. auto industry. In California, Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger spearheaded an effort to implement stricter emissions standards for vehicles, which has been adopted by 16 other states. These states are awaiting approval from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for a waiver to enforce these standards. During a candidates' debate, McCain, Huckabee, and Romney all expressed support for the waiver, although Romney later adjusted his stance. In the race for the presidency, where the focus is on "change," both Democratic candidates Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama have shown strong support for cap-and-trade plans to reduce carbon emissions that contribute to climate change. Tony Kreindler of Environmental Defense believes that the bipartisan backing for limiting global warming pollution should alert Congress to take action. While polls indicate that climate change is not a top priority for U.S. voters compared to issues like the economy and the Iraq war, David Sandretti of the League of Conservation Voters disagrees, arguing that environmental concerns are interconnected with other important issues. Sandretti also points out the connections between climate change, national security, and the future of U.S. energy. Sandretti stated that addressing global warming is impossible without addressing the energy issue, as the energy issue is a significant factor in all aspects of America's political life.