Active link to counter argument:
http://dailycaller.com/2017/01/03/satellites-show-2016-tied-1998-for-warmest-year-on-record/
From that link:
NASA takes readings from weather stations, ships and buoys that go through numerous adjustments to correct for “biases” in measurements. UAH satellite data looks at the bulk atmosphere. Satellite data is adjusted as well, but in different ways and not as often.
“Contrary to some reports, the satellite measurements are not calibrated in any way with the global surface-based thermometer records of temperature,” Spencer wrote. “They instead use their own on-board precision redundant platinum resistance thermometers (PRTs) calibrated to a laboratory reference standard before launch.”
Duh. Both years were at the end of El Nino. These warmest years ever, actually represent the greatest Pacific Ocean heat loss years ever. That means the planet is cooling simply based on total heat content. Leftists are retarded.