Olberman was on last night complaining that it was "only" 63 billion of potential reserves. He had some environmentalist on saying that He was "throwing away 25 years of environmental tradition" or some such.

I was against "Drill Baby Drill" but only because the Republicans were offering it at a sufficient, short term solution to the high price of gas.

There are some things to consider. According to Olbermann half of 63 billion barrels would be 4.5 years of oil. I believe that would significantly cut the money we give to our enemies, help out balance of trade as we switch to renewable and provide some well-paying jobs along this coast, hopefully even here in the Port of Wilmington.

The original ban was placed due to southeast governors, particularly Florida and Virginia, being opposed due to possible damage to the tourist industry. Environmentalists claimed it as a victory but the politics were actually commercial.

I suspect that is why California's coast was not included.

Extraction technology has become cleaner and less wasteful since then and thus the risk to the beaches is less.

I agree with the move as a part of a comprehensive energy strategy. If the oil is there we are lucky that the ban was in place. Domestic oil is more valuable strategically because we are running out.