Dems nix energy independence

Fri., June 13, 2008

The Spokesman-Review

Jimmy Carter called for energy independence. Since that time the Democrats have said no to everything necessary to achieve that goal, guaranteeing you will soon be paying $10 for gas. Just days ago, Democrats argued again against drilling in ANWR, saying it would take 10 years to bring the field online. Three years is more likely, but it is more interesting that the Democrats used the same argument repeatedly for nearly 20 years.

Had they not voted so, we would now be enjoying over 1 million barrels a day from those fields. In addition, 85 percent of the continental shelf is off limits to drilling, thanks to the Democrats. Recently, Democrats again voted against the use of fuel from tar sands and oil shale which are now economical at below $50 a barrel. And no to liquefied coal.

Alternative energies, you say? Well, does anyone really believe they will be driving a hydrogen car next year? In three years? In 10 years? We can all stand around whining and waiting for electric cars and be like deer trapped in the headlights, or we can demand that Democrats start saying yes to something other than $10 gasoline.

David C. Barnes

Spokane

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