55% of Oregonian voters recently polled in July 2008 support increased access to domestic oil and natural gas resources.

Pew, Zogby and even CNN are discovering that the majority of Americans, including Oregonians and Washingtonians are tired of spiraling oil and gas prices and see our best choice for relief is more energy supplies.

While conservation is still desired, it isn’t nearly enough. Americans all over the nation are realizing that conservation alone will not keep our society running and maintaining our lifestyle. Increasing domestic supply is the best immediate answer while alternative energy sources are discovered and perfected.

Data from the Federal Government reveals the U.S. has enough oil and natural gas to fuel more than 65 million cars for 60 years and enough natural gas to heat 60 million homes for 160 years, yet 85% of the outer continental shelf and 83% of onshore federal lands remain off limits to drilling for our own energy sources.

Are we in danger of depleting the earth’s oil? Some don’t think so.

The American Petroleum Institute has prepared a “Truth Primer” showing all aspects of why we saw such a drastic increase in cost the last year, to include the decline of the dollar, world unrest in Oil Producing Nations and a breakdown of how every dollar we spend at the pumps is broken down.

Separating the Rhetoric from the Reality, API supplies us with real answers to real questions, instead of the usual political rhetoric we continue to hear.

Bottom line is, America has energy needs and our own sources remain locked away from our use due to government policies. One party remained behind while the other enjoys a 5-week paid vacation, hoping to get some relief for Americans.

President Bush lifted the Presidential ban on drilling our own resources. Speaker of the House, Nancy Pelosi refused to allow any discussion or even an up and down vote on lifting the congressional ban and left, with her party, to relax and stump a failing book.

The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that fossil fuels will continue to meet at least 80 percent of our energy demands through 2030. Where we get it from depends a lot on you.

Do you want more elected officials who place snorkeling in the Galapagos above our needs? Or, ones who remain to fight for your interests?