The House of Representatives just passed the American Clean Energy and Security Act, sponsored by Rep. Henry A. Waxman, Chairman of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, and Rep. Edward J. Markey, Chairman of the House Select Committee on Energy Independence and Global Warming.

The Score: 219 - 212

A squeaker.

By all accounts, this is the first step in United State's history to reduce greehouse gases and shift to clean energy.

Now the Senate will take it and do their magic.

And environmental groups will push for much more in the next stage of the legislation.

But here's what some are saying today:

"This is a revolution. This is a moment in history...This is what the American people were calling for in the election in 2008, a fundamental change that breaks our dependence on foreign oil, creates job and reduces the pollution we put up in the atmosphere."  Congressman Ed Markey

"This bill is a tremendous opportunity to prevent a dangerous threat while creating millions of new jobs and driving new growth. It will end our dependence on foreign oil and keep us more secure."  Rep. Henry Waxman

The bill represents a “sea change” and “points to the fact that the United States [is] very serious on climate,” said German Chancellor Angela Merkel during a visit to the White House this morning. “I wish you every success. ... I would not have thought [it] possible a year ago,” she continued. “I’m very gratified to note that the president feels 100 percent committed to this issue, which has become apparent in all of our talks. He wants to see to it that Copenhagen becomes a success.”

John Boehner tried to filibuster. Unsuccessfully. He really doesn't think climate change is all that much of a problem.

Thankfully, we move ahead.