Washington, D.C. – Congressman André Carson released the following statement today after President Bush announced that he will be lifting an executive ban on offshore drilling:

“President Bush’s decision to lift an executive order ban on offshore drilling is short-sighted, ill-conceived and will do nothing to advance our nation’s long-term energy agenda. 
 
“In order to lower our nation’s soaring gas prices, preserve our natural resources, and protect our environment, it is incumbent that this President support a more balanced and diversified energy agenda that fully invests in our renewable energy and alternative fuel resources. 
“Drilling alone is not going to solve our nation’s pressing energy needs.  The time has come for our energy policies to be more aligned with our technological capabilities and eco-conscience sentiments.”

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