Obama shifts stance on offshore drilling
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| Sat, 08-02-2008 - 9:13am |
http://www.tothecenter.com/news.php?readmore=6547
Senator Barack Obama has wavered in his position on offshore drilling, saying that he may be willing to compromise on the issue, the Associated Press reports. The presumed presidential candidate had previously announced his opposition to offshore drilling but said Friday he would consider supporting limited offshore drilling if that was the way to get policy enacted that promotes more fuel-efficient cars and the development of alternate energy sources.
With attack ads criticizing Obama’s aversion to the drilling even as gasoline prices rise to $4, Obama has reneged his opposition, hoping that a compromise could put an end to policy gridlock on energy issues. “My interest is in making sure we've got the kind of comprehensive energy policy that can bring down gas prices,” Obama said in an interview with the Palm Beach Post. “If, in order to get that passed, we have to compromise in terms of a careful, well thought-out drilling strategy that was carefully circumscribed to avoid significant environmental damage -- I don't want to be so rigid that we can't get something done.”
Oil and energy have been a hot debate topic the past several weeks, leading up to the five week Congressional hiatus coming up. Earlier House Leader Nancy Pelosi refused to cave in to pressure to allow a vote on offshore drilling. It is unclear how Obama’s recent switch in stance will affect the Congresswoman’s steadfastness.
“The Republicans and the oil companies have been really beating the drums on drilling,” Obama said in the Post interview. “And so we don't want gridlock. We want to get something done.”

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Really? Because Bush talked about alternate technology ridding us of our oil addiction, not more drilling.
Do you really think we can be energy sufficient by opening up offshore drilling? Do you think we should nationalize the oil companies to make sure they sell here rather than to emerging markets in China and India?
You know, I am not for Obama, however both candidates have changed their stances on things based on what many Americans are asking for.
Honestly, it gives me hope that if either gets elected, maybe just maybe, someone will listen to the American people and we can find a balance.
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Call me an old fashion and outdated
Laura, I agree with your entire post, but especially this part:
"Honestly, it gives me hope that if either gets elected, maybe just maybe, someone will listen to the American people and we can find a balance. I know it is absolutely wishful thinking, but I will support Obama and hope for the best if he is elected, just as I would McCain."
One of these two men IS going to be our next President.
consumer satisfaction, that's a service detail, this is a good we buy.
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