8/4/08
Topline Talking Points:
- Unlike Barack Obama, John McCain has a comprehensive "all of the above" energy plan - the Lexington Project - that provides Americans with much needed relief at the pump while utilizing every source to move toward energy independence.
- John McCain believes we need to aggressively develop new advanced alternative energies while developing more existing energies here at home like nuclear power, clean coal technology and offshore drilling.
- Barack Obama belief that we can achieve energy independence without using and increase these existing resources demonstrates his inexperience and lack of understanding for the challenges the American people face.
- Barack Obama continues to oppose off-shore drilling and oppose the use of nuclear power. These misguided policies would result in higher energy costs for American families and businesses and increased dependence on foreign oil.
- Barack Obama continues to oppose new drilling at home; oppose nuclear power; and oppose encouraging invention of an advanced, affordable electric car.
- Barack Obama has said every energy source has a problem. The fact is that every energy source needs to be part of the solution.
- Barack Obama actually said that the only problem he has with higher gas prices is that they went up too fast. He would have "preferred a gradual" increase in gas prices.
- John McCain is talking about drilling for oil and Barack Obama is talking about inflating your tires - that's not a real energy plan.
The Facts About Barack Obama's New Energy Ad
- Barack Obama's ad shows that his status as the world's biggest celebrity is equally matched by the height of his hypocrisy.
- In 2005, Barack Obama voted for billions in sweetheart deals for oil companies as part of the Bush-Cheney energy bill.
- John McCain voted against the same bill decrying as irresponsible "handouts to big business and oil companies."
- Barack Obama's proposal for more taxes on oil would mean higher prices at the pump. History shows it only decreases production here at home and only make us more dependent on foreign oil.
Obama Pushback:
OBAMA CLAIM: John McCain has flip-flopped on lifting the drilling moratorium.
- FACT: Unlike Barack Obama, John McCain recognizes that the facts have changed on energy and that Americans are struggling with $4 gas. Unlike Barack Obama, John McCain has proposed real solutions for the near term.
OBAMA CLAIM: Drilling offshore will not help lower gas prices today.
- FACT: If we do not start today, we will never lower gas prices by developing our own energy sources. Ending the moratorium sends an immediate signal to the market which will have an impact on prices.
OBAMA CLAIM: John McCain's gas tax holiday will deplete the transportation fund.
- FACT: John McCain's proposed gas tax legislation explicitly guarantees full funding of the Highway Trust Fund.
OBAMA CLAIM: Barack Obama will give instant relief to middle class Americans through another stimulus check.
- FACT: To pay for his economic stimulus, Barack Obama has proposed higher taxes on oil companies, which will only lead to higher gas prices and a greater dependency on foreign oil.
- FACT: Economic Stimulus will not lower gas prices or expand energy supplies.
