Congressman goes Y2B Presidential Debates ONE Better!

Dec 12, 11:47 AM EST

Virtual Congressman Speaks at Summit

By ANDREW MIGA
Associated Press Writer

WASHINGTON (AP) -- Rep. Edward Markey couldn't make it to Bali for the United Nations climate change summit, so he sent along the next best thing: an animated version of himself.

Relying on computer technology, Markey, D-Mass., addressed the global climate change meeting Tuesday night using a virtual likeness of himself, known as an "avatar."

Markey's 3-D computerized likeness wore a dark blue suit, a green tie and a white shirt. He used the online community Second Life to speak in front of a computerized image of the Bali conference setting.

"I have teleported here over the Internet," he told the audience.

Markey wanted to attend the Bali conference, but he is involved in talks on the energy bill in Congress this week.

"I had to stay here in Washington to pass a clean energy bill that will make a down payment on the global warming cuts needed to save the planet," Markey said in a statement before his virtual appearance. "But it was critical to show the leaders gathered in Bali that they have partners here in America who are deeply concerned about solving global warming and re-engaging the United States on the global stage."

Markey spoke in front of a computer at a staffer's home on Capitol Hill audiences in Bali and on the Internet viewed his avatar.

"This is my first foray into Second Life, but it won't be my last," he said.

Markey is chairman of the House Select Committee on Energy Independence and Global Warming. He is also chairman of the House Subcommittee on Telecommunications and the Internet.