The key point that Republicans should be hammering on for off-shore drilling is the creation of jobs in the immediate future. The oil companies will do that which all businesses do with their profits, invest in new and emerging enterprises. Open up the off-shore drilling and the record “wind-fall profits” the Democrats want to tax, and One would give as an energy rebate, would be used to start developing the infrastructure for the drilling. Virginia, Florida and Texas along with other States that have equipment companies, pipeline companies…would realize near-term growth with the increased demand for their services. New jobs would be created. Additionally, as a part of McCain’s overall energy approach, the proposed nuclear plants would generate up to 750,000 new jobs. People want jobs, not rebates.

“…I will take 700 million gallons of oil out of the Strategic Oil Reserve..” This while Iran announces that it will take action against any new sanctions. To back this up, Iran tested long-range missles and announced the development of a new torpedo. Is it wise to take oil out of a reserve when the flow of crude is threatend?