The American Spectator on drilling for oil in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge

The American Spectator reports on a recent U.S. House of Representatives vote which allowed the opening of a portion of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR) to oil and natural gas drilling. Imagine my surprise when the article gives the impression the U.S. Energy policy is all about politics, and not about what is best for the country and the people living in it. The article strongly stresses the need to reduce gas prices for the average citizen, criticizing hybrid vehicles and ethanol fuel based on their cost premium for consumers. While I'll admit it pains me to pay close to $40 to fill up my gas tank, the author is missing the point. Energy resources are in tremendous demand all over the world, with very strong growth in countries like China and India. While opening up ANWR might provide a temporary relief, in the long run what will benefit the nation and the world is learning how to use less fuel. More support of hybrids, alternative fuels, and alternative transportation modes will help us deal with the further tightening of energy supplies for many more years. How refreshing it would be to see some long-term vision.
[Source: The American Spectator]