I must remind myself that our side is in the minority status, having little control on what legislation can be brought up for voting. Other than forcing a shut-down of all government business (a tactic used earlier by the GOP that led to a P.R. nightmare), there is little more the Republicans can do other than compromise with the other side, unequally it must surely be.
ANWAR drilling is absolutely A NO DEAL DEMOCRATIC ISSUE, according to GOP sources. Our guy, McCain, has also cut out all hope on this option with his stubborn opposition as our Presidential standard bearer.
This only leaves the Offshore Drilling option for we Drill Now Advocates.
I have yet to read or understand the restrictions placed upon the proposed offshore oil drilling buffer, this will be key in determining the extent of a true positive gain for our team.
Another key aspect will be understanding the details on the closing of the "Tax Loophole" currently used by the oil companies. Is this a measure to address EQUITY in taxing OR just a back door method to INCREASE taxes on the hated BIG OIL.
I have my homework to do, hopefully you will also investigate for yourself. Here are a few links for us to start......
My take on Corker's participation in The Gang of 10. 'Corker and Colleagues "Gang" Up on Americans'
Ken
bluecollarmuse@gmail.com
Energy and Environment
Americans are increasingly concerned about energy.
Demand is increasing faster than supplies while much of the world’s oil is delivered in a restrictive market dominated by unstable or hostile nations. Meanwhile, many Americans harbor misunderstandings and myths about energy, the environment, and market forces. They want low prices and plentiful supply, but resist steps that must be taken to achieve these goals. They want to protect the environment but most plans have huge costs and questionable benefits. This confusion leads Congress to enact conflicting policies that harm the nation’s ability to meet its energy needs. Sound policies must enable America to obtain supplies from a wide range of sources in a way that is best for the economy and also addresses homeland and national security considerations.
Senator Corker Unveils Energy Plan with Bipartisan Gang of 10
corker8_1_08.mp3 - | 1.1 MBs | Studio quality
Johnson City Press (As We See It): Gang of 10 is a shining start for bipartisanship
August 10, 2008
© 2001-08 Johnson City Press
U.S. Sen. Bob Corker believes developing a long-term national energy plan is a complicated task that cries out for bipartisanship. That’s why he has joined with four of his fellow Republicans and five Democratic colleagues to form what has been called the “Gang of 10.”
Before leaving Washington two weeks ago for summer break, this bipartisan group of senators introduced an $84 billion proposal they call the “New Energy Reform Act of 2008.” It’s a three-pronged plan that calls for increased domestic oil production, conservation and development of alternative fuels.
The legislation was built on compromise, with both Republicans and Democrats making concessions. For example, Democrats agreed to open up new areas to domestic offshore drilling and Republicans have green-lighted an end to a loophole in federal tax law that has benefited oil companies.
Corker said last week the energy plan was offered in response to the nonproductive partisan debates on soaring gas prices that have been heard in Congress of late.
“Both parties are only interested in protecting their presidential candidates,” Corker said.
In light of such entrenched partisanship in Washington, it might seem Tennessee’s junior senator is a voice in the wilderness when it comes to reaching across the partisan aisle. Even so, the work of Corker and his colleagues comes as good news to Americans who are truly tired of the petty partisanship that now strangles honest debate on Capitol Hill.
Corker is correct to say high energy costs are a burden for both Republicans and Democrats. He is also on target to suggest it should be up to both Republicans and Democrats to craft a remedy. The bipartisan work of the Gang of 10 on energy is a welcome start. We hope Corker and his colleagues will demonstrate similar strong bipartisanship on other issues, such as health care, housing and the national debt.
Statesmanship is never easy. It often comes at a cost, but we are pleased to see Corker is thinking about the next generation instead of the next election.
© 2001-08 Johnson City Press
| Gang of 10 Sells Out House GOP; Stupid Senators Give Gift to Obama |
 Five Republicans undercut our chances for victory. |
0 comments:
Post a Comment