[img_assist|nid=779|title=State Senate candidate Joe Nation|desc=|link=none|align=right|width=146|height=160]State Senate candidate Joe Nation, who is engaged in a heated Democratic primary battle with incumbent Carole Migden and State Assemblyman Mark Leno, has launched a television advertisement focusing on global warming.

“Global warming is happening faster than anyone ever imagined. We need bold solutions to combat the dangerous effects of climate change,” Nation says in the advertisement. “I co-wrote the most aggressive greenhouse gas law in the nation. But we have to do more. Now I’ve written a detailed plan so California can lead the world in our fight against global warming.”

The 30-second advertisement, which aides say is airing throughout the Marin and San Francisco-area district, is designed to emphasize Nation’s strength on environmental issues. Since finishing up his three terms tenure in the California State Assembly in 2006 Nation has worked as an environmental consultant.

“Climate change is an issue of huge importance to Joe personally,” says Nation adviser Jim Ross.

Today Nation released a forceful statement in opposition to a plan to build power plants in the Potrero Hill neighborhood of San Francisco.

“I urge the Mayor and the Board of Supervisors to look to renewable energies to meet San Francisco’s energy needs and reject the development of these polluting power plants,” Nation says in the release.

Ross says that, with less than a month before voters in the district head to the polls, climate change is a potent issue.

“The environment is an issue that cuts across the District in a very powerful way,” says Ross.