Issue Position: Offshore Oil Drilling

Issue Position

Chris believes the Deep Horizon oil spill is a tragic example of why we can no longer rely on oil as our main source of energy. Oil drilling not only poses an environmental risk, but our dependence on foreign oil is a national security concern.

We spend approximately $1 billion a day overseas on oil. Chris has long supported innovation and research in alternative energy sources, and while transitioning from oil to alternative energies will not be quick or easy, now is the time to forge ahead with serious commitments in wind, solar, biofuels, and other options. Our state's success in bringing Fisker Automotive to build innovative, sporty electric cars at the former GM Boxwood facility is a testament to the commitment of the federal, state, and county governments to alternative energy and building a green manufacturing economy in Delaware.

While Chris commends the Obama Administration for holding BP accountable and establishing the Victim Compensation Fund, he has been a strong opponent of offshore drilling in Delaware. As Senator, he will continue fighting for offshore wind farms off the coast of Delaware. The University of Delaware and leading companies in the state continue to provide critical research in solar, fuel cell, and batteries that further Delaware's alternative energy capability. This investment in alternative energy sources is critical in increasing our domestic energy capacity and reducing our reliance on foreign oil.

Sadly, an investment in alternative energies will not undo the crisis still underway in the Gulf of Mexico and surrounding states. We must hold BP accountable for cleaning up this unprecedented spill and untold ecological and economic damage it has done. We must come together to assist the entire Gulf region in immediate and long-term efforts. We need thorough investigations into the cause of the spill and whether government could have done more to prevent it. Chris' thoughts and prayers are with the fishing communities, hotel and restaurant owners, and millions of residents whose lives have been turned upside down.

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