On the recordFebruary 16, 2012
The Republican love letter to Big Oil could be the kiss of death for small businesses, hotels, motels, shrimpers, fishermen, and families that rely on tourism, and that's just in the State of Florida. This bill puts too many jobs at risk in a misguided, love-struck attempt to allow Big Oil to drill just about anywhere, including unique and sensitive areas all across America. Republican leadership has made it abundantly clear they are willing to sell America to the highest bidder. Well, I'm here to say America is not for sale. Is nothing sacred in this country anymore? Is nothing off limits? How about Mount Vernon, George Washington's home? Would we drill there if Big Oil could make a few bucks? How about Gettysburg National Battlefield? I hear there may be some natural gas nearby. Why not check Grandma and Grandpa's backyard. You're already trying to take away their Medicare, so why stop there? There are places in America that are not for sale and should be protected, and my amendment provides a test. Here's the test: I pick two special areas to put to the test in this Congress. My amendment will prevent drilling within 5 miles of any of the Great Lakes or the Everglades. Now, don't get me wrong, we must have robust domestic oil production--in fact, that is happening now. We are currently producing in America at higher levels than ever before. We have more domestic production than we import. Last year, U.S.…
