Growing public pressure for a solution to high gasoline prices, which also raise the cost of food and other goods that often have to be transported long distances, has caused both John McCain and Barack Obama—the two leading presidential contenders—to reconsider and modify their positions on offshore drilling.
Here’s the rundown on the 2008 presidential candidates’ views on offshore drilling.
McCain on Offshore Drilling for Oil
Republican John McCain is in favor of reopening U.S. coastal waters to offshore oil drilling, claiming that offshore drilling will help American families by lowering gasoline and food prices—but his new advocacy for offshore drilling is in direct contrast to his previously long-held position that more offshore drilling should be banned.
Learn more about McCain’s position on offshore oil drilling.
Obama on Offshore Drilling for Oil
Democrat Barack Obama opposes more offshore drilling and does not favor ending the federal moratorium that has protected most U.S. waters since the early 1980s, but he has said he would be willing to compromise on that position if offshore drilling were included as part of an overarching strategy to lower energy costs.
Learn more about Obama’s position on offshore oil drilling.
McKinney on Offshore Drilling for Oil
Green Party candidate Cynthia McKinney is opposed to more offshore drilling.
Learn more about McKinney’s position on offshore oil drilling.
Nader on Offshore Drilling for Oil
Independent candidate Ralph Nader is opposed to offshore drilling and has an aggressive plan to phase out U.S. consumption of all fossil fuels.
Learn more about Nader’s position on offshore oil drilling.
Barr on Offshore Drilling for Oil
Libertarian candidate Bob Barr is in favor of more offshore drilling, and of exploring and developing all U.S. petroleum resources—from oil shale to ANWR.
Learn more about Barr’s position on offshore oil drilling.
