oil drilling

Speaking at Andrew’s Air Force Base in Maryland March 31, President Obama reiterated his commitment to what he called “America’s energy security.” As part of this effort, the president announced his intention to allow more oil drilling off America’s shores.

While the United States has invested millions in the development of clean energy, “in the short term, as we transition to cleaner energy sources, we’ll have to make tough decisions about opening new offshore areas for oil and gas development in ways that protect communities and coastlines,” Obama said.

The administration will be exploring offshore drilling options in the south and mid Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico. “Sensitive areas” in the Arctic, like Alaska’s Bristol Bay, will remain protected, Obama said.

Acknowledging that this announcement would not be taken well by those who oppose oil drilling, the president said this was not a decision reached lightly. “But the bottom line is this: given our energy needs, in order to sustain economic growth, produce jobs, and keep our businesses competitive, we’re going to need to harness traditional sources of fuel even as we ramp up production of new sources of renewable, homegrown energy.”

Do you agree with the president’s statement?