American Solutions blog

Blog Buzz for Video Contest

Dan Kotman — 8/14/2008

If you missed it yesterday, we're giving away free gasoline for an entire year. All you have to do is create a video that demonstrates in two minutes or less why a “Drill Here, Drill Now, Pay Less” approach is best for America’s economic and national security.

We tried to have a little fun with our announcement video, and I hope you'll try to do the same with your video. If you've never made a video before, recruit friends or family members to help you shoot and edit the video.

Thanks to blogs like RedState, HotAir, TechRepublican, Citizentube, The Hill's Briefing Room, GretaWire, American Sentinel, and many others for helping us get the word out about the "Drill Here, Drill Now, Pay Nothing" video contest.

Meeting With Google and YouTube

Dan Kotman — 8/14/2008

Newt and our Silicon Valley office manager, David Kralik, toured Google yesterday to get an inside look at some of their new technology in the works.

Afterwards, Newt met up with YouTube's News and Politics editor Steve Grove to talk about our new YouTube contest and a wide range of topics.

Here's the interview:

Read on for some pictures from the Google tour...

Video Contest: Win Free Gas for One Year

Dan Kotman — 8/13/2008

Today, we launched a "Drill Here, Drill Now, Pay Nothing" YouTube contest. Why "Pay Nothing?" Well, the winner will receive free gasoline for an entire year.

We'll announce the winner during our second annual Solutions Day on September 27. Find out more details about the YouTube contest here.

Ask Newt A YouTube Question

Dan Kotman — 8/12/2008

Tomorrow, Newt will be at Google and will be interviewed by YouTube's Steve Grove. If you have a question that you'd like Steve to ask Newt, be sure to submit it here.

Also, be sure to check back tomorrow for an exciting announcement about the “Drill Here, Drill Now, Pay Less” movement. You won't want to miss it; subscribe to our YouTube channel today!

Why NOT Drilling Will Help 'Big Oil'

Dan Kotman — 8/11/2008

Economists Agree, Increasing Supply Will Lower Price

Dan Kotman — 8/8/2008

A few weeks ago, I blogged about a study by two economists that was rejected by the prestigious Energy Journal because its conclusion that drilling now would impact today's oil prices was already a well-known fact among economists.

What you probably don't know is the story of how that study and rejection letter came to our attention. It came from Joel Alicea, a bright intern for Speaker Gingrich at the American Enterprise Institute.

He tells the story in this NRO op-ed:

Imagine my surprise, as a slightly befuddled intern trapped in the whirlwind of energy-policy research, when I found definitive and rather humorous proof that several decades of established economic theory contradicted core liberal doctrine.

It all began after weeks of debate over whether Congress should lift its bans on drilling for oil offshore and in the Alaskan National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR). Sen. Barack Obama and his liberal allies on Capitol Hill proclaimed the hallowed truism that “we can’t drill our way out of higher gas prices.”

But after Martin Feldstein, Harvard economics professor and a Reagan administration chairman of the Council of Economic Advisers, pointed out the serious flaws in this notion in a Wall Street Journal oped, my immediate boss (Newt Gingrich’s research director) asked me to dig up some more research on the matter.

The professor’s basic position came from simple economic theory: If you increase supply, you will lower prices, or at least decrease the rate of price inflation. But just as importantly, Feldstein claimed that even future increases in supply can have an immediate impact on oil prices, because buyers and sellers take expected changes into account when making decisions.

Since he made the discovery, Joel has been a guest on Hugh Hewitt and Mike Gallagher's national radio shows. Great work, Joel! You can read the entire op-ed here.

Florida House Speaker Marco Rubio: Drill Here, Drill Now

Dan Kotman — 8/7/2008

As we continue to win the argument on offshore drilling, Floridians --with their vast coastal regions -- are at the center of the debate.

According to a new Quinnipiac University poll, 60% of Florida voters support offshore drilling in areas that are currently off limits.

In this new video, Florida House Speaker Marco Rubio says drilling off the coast of Florida, while simultaneously developing a comprehensive energy plan, is "common sense." Please leave a comment thanking Speaker Rubio for his leadership in Florida and for supporting the "Drill Here, Drill Now, Pay Less" movement.

Or, if you're bi-lingual like Speaker Rubio, here's the Spanish video version.

Energy Press Conference A Huge Success

Dan Kotman — 8/6/2008

In addition to the video, we have a lot of great pictures from today's press conference thanks to Rob Bluey and the House GOP Leader's office. We were there on behalf of the 1.4 million Democrats, Republicans, and independents who have signed the "Drill Here, Drill Now, Pay Less" petition and want immediate Congressional action to lower gas prices.

As you can tell from the pictures, we had a great turn out from the media (a "throng" as the AP put it) and about 15 Members of Congress. An enthusiastic crowd of tourists also gathered around to voice their support.

Read on for some sample media coverage of the press conference...

Your Voice is Being Heard on Capitol Hill

Dan Kotman — 8/6/2008

American Solution is headed up to Capitol Hill today to meet with Members of Congress still in Washington working to pass an energy bill to deliver a message of thanks and encouragement on behalf of the 1.4 million Americans who have signed the “Drill Here, Drill Now, Pay Less” petition.

After the meeting, we'll hold a press conference with Speaker Gingrich and other House Republicans at 10:30 am. C-SPAN plans to air the press conference live here.

Thank you for making your voice heard in the energy debate. Together, we're really making a difference.

UPDATE: Here's the video of Speaker Gingrich's remarks earlier today.

Congresswoman Michele Bachmann: Drill Here, Drill Now

Dan Kotman — 8/4/2008

As you may have heard, Congress left for a 5-week vacation without doing anything to lower gas prices. They wouldn't even allow an up or down vote on drilling for more American oil.

Despite being on recess, some Members of Congress are returning to the U.S. Capitol to give speeches on the House floor to keep the energy debate alive.

One of those leaders standing for real change and lower gas prices is Minnesota Congresswoman Michele Bachmann. She recently visited the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR) and saw firsthand the latest technological breakthroughs that allow us to responsibly explore for more energy.

She's also a very tech-savvy Congresswoman with a great blog and YouTube channel, so be sure to stay updated on her hard work to promote the "Drill Here, Drill Now, Pay Less" movement.

Here's her latest video where she talks about signing the petition:

MoveOn.org Admits We are Winning the Energy Debate

Dan Kotman — 8/4/2008

Poll after poll after poll after poll after poll shows that we are winning the argument on how to lower gas and diesel prices and develop more American energy now.

But the even bigger news is that the anti-energy elites are desperately worried. They are not only criticizing us, but they are admitting that they are losing the argument.

And friends, that’s big. In fact, considering the source, that’s huge.

Recently, liberal group MoveOn.org in an email to their supporters sounded dejected, they wrote "Here's the truth: Right now, progressives are losing this argument."

That can mean only one thing – WE ARE WINNING THIS ARGUMENT!

In the energy debate, common sense is winning and it’s got the anti-energy elites rattled because they offer no solutions to lowering gas and diesel prices.

American Solutions, on the other hand, has taken a bold stand and has been leading the "Drill Here, Drill Now, Pay Less" movement that has energized millions of Americans around a positive solution. Because of your help and the help of more than a million others, today an overwhelming majority of Americans support opening up new areas for exploration and drilling of American oil and gas, including offshore.

Even though MoveOn.org admits we are winning, they won’t quit, and there is still more work to be done.

Congress has left for a 5-week vacation without doing anything to address the soaring cost of gas and diesel. This inaction is unacceptable to the American people, many of whom can’t afford a vacation this year.

Let's continue to work hard-- and encourage your friends and family to get involved -- to keep winning the argument, and ultimately, demand action from Congress. If enough of us stand together, Congress won't be able withstand the pressure.

Just Returned from Gregg County, Texas

Princella Smith — 8/4/2008

(photo from Les Hassell/News-Journal)

Keith Rothra, Marty Johnson, and the engaged citizens of Gregg County stood for real change this weekend. It was truly a model of citizen leadership that everyone should consider replicating in their community.

I was fortunate to speak at a rally that they sponsored Saturday afternoon in Kilgore City, Texas demanding that their public officials support drilling for American oil as a way to lower gas prices. My new friend and supporter of the "Drill Here, Drill Now Pay Less" movement, Congressman Louie Gohmert was there along with several local officials and members of the local media.

Here's what the Longview News-Journal wrote about the rally:

The Republican Party of Gregg County made their voices loud and clear Saturday afternoon at Kilgore's City Park, "Drill here, drill now and pay less."

More than 100 people gathered in the blaring sun to make sure local, state and federal representatives heard their message that drilling in Texas could reap great benefits for East Texas' economy.

The rally takes its theme from the American Solutions organization created by former U.S. House Speaker Newt Gingrich.
...

Princella Smith, a representative of Gingrich's American Solutions, said research conducted by their organization shows Americans want to see change in the country's energy policy.

"There are 1.4 million people in favor of drilling here, drilling now and pay less," she said as the crowd completed her sentence. "This is a supply problem and we need to take action on this issue."

Read the whole article here.

KLTV was also at the rally and has a video report here.

Again, this rally was a great model of citizen activism and I encourage you to hold something similar in your community.

Breaking: Congress Leaves For 5-Week Vacation

Dan Kotman — 8/1/2008

The U.S. House has left for a 5-week vacation without doing anything to address the soaring cost of gas and diesel.

C-SPAN's cameras on the House floor have been turned off. So have the lights and microphones.

But a group of Congressmen have decided to stick around, and in the dark, talk with visitors in the House gallery about the need to drill here and drill now so we can all pay less.

Since the cameras are off, you can follow all the action on Texas Congressman John Culberson's twitter and qik accounts.

UPDATE: The Politico has a fascinating report on all the latest developments.

(Hat tip: Hot Air)

UPDATE: Another Member of Congress, Pete Hoekstra, is also twittering from the House floor.

UPDATE: The Washington Post is also reporting from the scene:

Capitol Briefing will admit to never having seen anything remotely like this in 10 years of covering Congress. As "The Phantom Session" continues, the chamber is packed with tourists, and the line to get in the galleries stretches down the stairs inside the Capitol. What appears to be an entire troop of Boy Scouts is sitting in the chamber.

American Solutions Activist on FOX News

Dan Kotman — 7/31/2008

Suzanne Curran, one of our citizen activists from Virginia, was on FOX News today talking about how upset she is that Congress is going on a five week vacation without taking action to lower gas prices.

Suzanne was also part of the group who delivered 1.3 million "Drill Here, Drill Now, Pay Less" petition signatures to House and Senate leadership a couple weeks ago.

After you watch the video, call your Congressman at (202) 224-3121 and ask them why they are going on vacation while hard-working Americans are struggling to pay for soaring gas prices.

Lower Gas Prices or Vacation?

Dan Kotman — 7/29/2008

That's the choice Congress faces this week. From Newt's newsletter:

It's almost August, the time each year when many American families go on vacation. But if you're like many Americans, you're crunching the numbers and realizing this year's vacation won't be like recent years past. The cost of gasoline and its spillover effect on the price of food - and, well, everything else - has left your family with less money to spend. That's why over half of Americans are reconsidering taking vacation this summer to save money.

It's against this backdrop that Nancy Pelosi, Harry Reid, and the rest of the leadership in Congress will have to make a big choice.

With so many Americans skipping vacation this summer because of the high cost of gas, should Congress get to go on a five week vacation without doing anything about it?

Help us keep the pressure on Congress. Sign the "Drill Here, Drill Now, Pay Less" petition today!

Congress Debates Energy Today

Dan Kotman — 7/28/2008

The House Democratic Caucus and the House Republican Conference, in cooperation with the Democratic Leadership Council, the Congressional Institute and the Entergy-Tulane Energy Institute, are sponsoring a debate today at Tulane University to discuss America’s energy policy.

Participants in the debate will be: Rep. Michele Bachmann (R-MN), Rep. Earl Blumenauer (D-OR), Rep. Jay Inslee (D-WA), Rep. Denny Rehberg (R-MT), Rep. Hilda Solis (D-CA), Rep. Bart Stupak (D-MI), Rep. Fred Upton (R-MI), and Rep. Zach Wamp (R-TN).

The debate goes from 12 - 1:30 PM ET and will be streamed live here: http://www.nextgenweb.org/.

Weekend Reading

Dan Kotman — 7/26/2008

Bloomberg: Arctic May Hold 90 Billion Barrels of Oil, U.S. Says

The Arctic may hold 90 billion barrels of oil, more than all the known reserves of Nigeria, Kazakhstan and Mexico combined, and enough to supply U.S. demand for 12 years, the U.S. Geological Survey said.

Washington Post Editorial: No Drilling, No Vote

If drilling opponents really have the better of this argument, why are they so worried about letting it come to a vote?

USA Today: High gas prices threaten to shut down rural towns

Soaring gas prices are a double-whammy for many rural residents: They often pay more than people who live in cities and suburbs because of the expense of hauling fuel to their communities, and they must drive greater distances for life's necessities: work, groceries, medical care and, of course, gas.

Associated Press: State highway patrols struggle with big gas bills

State police agencies nationwide are scrambling to reduce gasoline use and find the money to cover their costs. Some are beginning to worry that they will have to cut back on hiring officers.

U.S. News & World Report: Schools Battle Rising Gas and Food Prices

Besides cutting a day from the school week, some districts are reducing the number of field trips and shortening bus routes to save on fuel. Nationwide, 75 percent of school systems are expected to raise cafeteria meal prices this fall, and 62 percent have plans to lay off some of their kitchen staff.

High Gas Prices = 4 Day School Week?

Dan Kotman — 7/24/2008

This is a really unfortunate story: some rural school districts are contemplating a four-day school week because of soaring energy costs.

Facing a crippling increase in fuel costs, some rural U.S. schools are mulling a solution born of the '70s oil crisis: a four-day week.

Cutting out one day of school has been the key to preserving educational programs and staff in parts of Kentucky, New Mexico and Minnesota, outweighing some parents' concerns about finding day-care for the day off.

"For rural school districts where buses may travel 100 miles round-trip each day, there certainly are transportation savings worth considering," said Marc Egan, the director of federal affairs at the National School Boards Association.

Egan said about 100 schools in as many as 16 states have already moved to a four-day school week, many to save money on transportation, heating and cooling.

Nevada's White Pine School District switched just one of its schools to a four-day week three years ago. Now, with energy costs soaring, four other schools in the district are following suit.

Is anything like this happening in your area? If so, please send us an email with your story.

(Hat tip: The Corner)

Drilling Now Will Impact Oil Prices

Dan Kotman — 7/22/2008

Over at Newt.org, they have an anecdote worth highlighting about a recent study conducted by two economists on how opening up ANWR would impact today's oil prices.

The study concluded: "We find that oil that is expected to reach the market some years hence has an immediate impact on oil prices," and that "if oil firms were allowed to drill in ANWR and many of the other areas that are currently off limits to oil production, it is possible that these areas together might have a significant impact on world oil prices."

(Side note: Martin Feldstein, chairman of the Council of Economic Advisers under President Reagan, recently wrote a related op-ed, "We Can Lower Oil Prices Now," that is well worth your reading).

But back to the study. When the authors submitted it to the prestigious Energy Journal, it was rejected because it didn't offer anything new to the field of economics. Or, as the rejection letter put it, "your main result (the present impact of an anticipated future supply change) is already known to economists."

In other words, as is already a well-known fact among economists, it's time to Drill Here, Drill Now, so we can all Pay Less.

Here's the full rejection letter from The Energy Journal:

Energy Journal Rejection Letter - Upload a Document to Scribd

The New Language of Smart Energy

Dan Kotman — 7/17/2008

We just released a joint report with Frank Luntz entitled "The New Language of Smart Energy." (Click here to download PDF)

The document focuses on what the American people believe regarding energy policy. It is a tri-partisan document that is useful and informative for everyone you know -- Democrats, Republicans, and independents alike.

At a time when Americans' pocketbooks are hurting, this paper offers a blueprint to have a dialogue about energy that is positive and solution-oriented.

I hope you'll take a moment to read it over and share it with your friends and family.

Read on for the top 10 things the American people believe about energy...

Highlights from Joint House and Senate Press Conference

Dan Kotman — 7/17/2008

I as mentioned yesterday, we were honored to hold a joint press conference with House and Senate leadership earlier this week to deliver the "Drill Here, Drill Now, Pay Less" petition on your behalf.

Here are some highlights from the press conference.

Take special note of Senator John Cornyn's closing remarks. He says you are doing “what every citizen of America has a right to do, and that is to petition their government. To petition for change.”

Well said, Senator. This certainly is a petition for change.

Let's Have an Honest Debate, Not Smears

Dan Kotman — 7/16/2008

American Solutions has widely been credited with igniting the national focus on domestic drilling with our "Drill Here, Drill Now, Pay Less" petition.

At a time when American's pocketbooks are hurting, it's important we have a positive dialogue about solutions to lower gas prices. And that's a large reason why our petition drive has been so successful.

Ever since we started the petition we've been saying drilling for more American oil is an important first step to lowering gas prices, but it is only one part of our strategy to do everything we can to lower energy prices. American Solutions also favor clean coal, nuclear, wind, solar, biofuels, flex-fuel cars, hydrogen, and prizes for technological breakthroughs for new ways to successfully move toward affordable energy independence.

Unfortunately, instead of having an honest debate over these solutions, one group in particular has resorted to spreading a misleading smear that we're "funded by Big Oil."

The Wall Street Journal's Environmental Capital blog wrote about this smear, so I wanted to share with you my response.

Read on for the facts...

Petition Delivery on FOX Business

Princella Smith — 7/16/2008

I was on FOX Business earlier today talking about our press conference on Capitol Hill yesterday when we delivered 1.3 million petition signatures to House and Senate leadership.

1.3 Million Voices for Lower Gas Prices

Dan Kotman — 7/16/2008

We had the exciting opportunity to hold a press conference at the Capitol yesterday with House and Senate GOP leadership. We were there to speak on behalf of you and 1.3 million other Americans who are demanding that Congress act now to lower our gas and diesel prices.

I wish all 1.3 million "Drill Here, Drill Now, Pay Less" petition signers could have been there to tell their story to Congress how increased food and energy prices are hurting their families. Even though everyone wasn't there, each and every voice was certainly represented.

And I'm pleased to report that Congress is listening.

With your help, we have sent a strong message to every lawmaker and candidate in every state and congressional district that Americans of all political backgrounds want a comprehensive energy plan that produces more American energy resources, develops new systems of conservation, and focuses on technological breakthroughs for alternative energy sources.

We'll have the full video of the press conference posted soon. But in the meantime, here's a video of Senator McConnell talking about receiving your petition signature.

Senator Cornyn on the "Drill Here, Drill Now, Pay Less" Movement

Princella Smith — 7/15/2008

Senator John Cornyn from Texas has started a great conversation on his blog this week about making American energy independent.

He also recorded this video about the "Drill Here, Drill Now, Pay Less" movement. Be sure to leave your comments on his blog and thank Senator Cornyn for his leadership on energy issues.

Offshore Drilling Passes Virginia House of Delegates

Dan Kotman — 7/9/2008

Good news today from Virginia on offshore drilling. HB6006, a bill that would allow vital oil and natural gas exploration off the Virginia coastline, passed the House of Delegates by 56 to 39.

The bill would also use the revenue from the offshore drilling to help pay for Virginia's transportation needs. With Congress refusing to take action to drill here and drill now, it's nice to see the states take some initiative.

Delegate Chris Saxman, the bill's author, said this in a press release:

“Though federal officials will ultimately decide whether to lift the ban on offshore drilling, it is important for Virginia, possessing potentially significant offshore resources, to prepare for that possibility now. By passing House Bill 6006, the Virginia General Assembly can send a strong message to Congress that we are ready to act.”

Thanks to all the Virginians who called their Delegate asking them to support the bill. Now, we need you to call your State Senator to encourage them to support offshore drilling as well.

UPDATE: Unfortunately, this bill was narrowly defeated in Virgnia Senate by 18-16. This just renews the importance of Congressional action to lift the ban on offshore drilling.

Drill Now Bumper Sticker Pictures

Tim Cameron — 7/8/2008

A couple weeks ago we asked you to send in pictures of your “Drill Now” bumper stickers in action, and many of you took the time to take these photos and send them in to us. I put these photos together in a Flickr slideshow. Hope you enjoy it, and thank you for helping spread our commonsense solution for high gas prices.

Talking Energy Independence on Independence Day

Princella Smith — 7/7/2008

I hope everyone had a great Fourth of July. For a brief part of my Independence Day, I was on Neil Cavuto's show talking about the "Drill Here, Drill Now, Pay Less" petition and our need to produce more American energy to become independent from foreign countries.

Here's the video:

Energy Independence Day

Dan Kotman — 7/1/2008

This week Members of Congress will be back in their districts for the Fourth of July.

While more than1.2 million Americans have signed the “Drill Here, Drill Now, Pay Less” petition, many in Congress are still not listening to the will of the American people. This is why we need your help to declare this Fourth of July Energy Independence Day!

When your Congressman is back in your district, they will most likely be holding townhall meetings or walking in the July 4 parade.

Here's what you can do to send a message to Washington it's time to drill here and drill now:

Attend your townhall meeting or parade to ask your Member of Congress if they support the “Drill Here, Drill Now, Pay Less” petition. If possible, bring a video camera along to capture their answer.
If you’re unable to attend these meetings, be sure to either call or write your Congressman’s office instead.
Call your local talk radio show or write a letter to the editor about your Congressman’s position on the “Drill Here, Drill Now, Pay Less” petition.
Download and print this handout to distribute at your townhall meeting or parade.

You can find more information to guide you at www.AmericanSolutions.com/EnergyDay.

UPDATE: CitizenTube, YouTube's politics blog, is featuring our Energy Independence Day video on their Monday Hotlist.

Another One Million Milestone

Dan Kotman — 6/30/2008

Reaching one million signatures on the "Drill Here, Drill Now, Pay Less" petition was a tremendous milestone that really validated it as a nationwide grassroots movement.

Today, I'm happy to report we hit another one million milestone. The video below, "3 Ways to Lower Gas Prices" has gone viral, getting more than one million views in just two weeks. Watch the video, let us know your thoughts, and while you're at it, subscribe to our YouTube channel.

An In-depth Look at Clean Offshore Drilling

Dan Kotman — 6/27/2008

Who would you trust as experts on a subject: Washington politicians or businesses that base their livelihood on that subject? Easy, right? The businesses.

Enter Mad Money's Jim Cramer. Upset over the myths coming from Washington on offshore drilling, Cramer highlighted several companies this week that "make clean offshore drilling a reality."

All week he's been saying due to tremendous technological advances, we can drill for oil offshore in a way that is clean and safe for the environment. With that, here are some recaps from Cramer's series this week:

Tuesday's show: Keeping Offshore Drilling Clean

Wednesday's show: Christmas Trees Under the Sea

Friday's show: An Oil Rig's Supply Chain

All the investing lingo aside, it was an informative week of looking at companies who make offshore drilling environmentally friendly. To wrap up the week, read this article from Mad Money's senior writer, who no longer believes it's possible to oppose offshore drilling on environmental grounds:

But opposition to clean offshore drilling when it doesn't do anything like the environmental damage that it used to? All I can do is fall back on Keynes and paraphrase to Congress, as someone who formerly opposed offshore drilling but was convinced by the data, "when the facts change, I change my opinion, what do you do sirs?"

Congressman McCotter Signs 'Drill Here, Drill Now' Petition

Dan Kotman — 6/26/2008

Congressman Thaddeus McCotter, the Chairman of the House Republican Policy Committee, posted this video today announcing he has joined nearly 1.2 million Americans who have signed the "Drill Here, Drill Now, Pay Less" petition.

188 Congressman Sign Westmoreland's Pledge

Dan Kotman — 6/25/2008

Rep. Lynn Westmoreland's pledge has come a long way in a week and a half.

As of this blog entry, 188 members of Congress have signed the pledge, including three Democrats: Rep. Neil Abercrombie of Hawaii, Rep. Henry Cuellar of Texas, and Rep. Patrick Murphy of Pennsylvania.

The straight forward pledge reads: "I will vote to increase U.S. oil production to lower gas prices for Americans."

If your Representative is not on the list, give them a call and ask them to sign the pledge to support developing more American energy resources.

Full list is after the jump...

The Drill Now Movement Spreads to the Colbert Report

Dan Kotman — 6/25/2008

With more than one million Americans joining the "Drill Here, Drill Now, Pay Less" movement, Congress has already taken notice. And now, so has Comedy Central.

Last night, Stephen Colbert joked about how rapidly the movement has grown. Funny stuff.

New Zogby Poll on Offshore Drilling

Dan Kotman — 6/23/2008

A new Zogby poll from this weekend reveals that 74% of Americans support offshore oil drilling, including 90% of Republicans, 75% of independents, and 58% of Democrats--majorities of each party.

This comes on the heels of a Rasmussen's poll last week that found 67% of the American people support offshore drilling.

As gas prices continue to increase, it looks like the percentage of Americans who support offshore drilling is increasing too.

You Are Making A Difference

Dan Kotman — 6/20/2008

As I briefly touched on yesterday when we hit one million signatures, this grassroots movement of Americans pressuring our elected officials to drill for American oil has changed the national debate.

This week alone, President Bush, Senator McCain, and Florida Governor Charlie Crist all announced their support for lifting the federal ban on offshore drilling.

And Robert Novak's column today is further proof that you are making a difference:

Members of Congress were swamped by telephone calls and e-mail messages Thursday demanding, ‘‘Drill now!’’ in response to a Republican call for increased American oil production to fight runaway gasoline prices. (emphasis mine)

Lawmakers got little response to previous proposals intended to lower the cost of oil: alternative energy sources, a federal gasoline tax holiday, an excess profits tax on U.S. oil producers and pressure on foreign oil producers. In contrast, the demand to ‘‘drill now’’ (first urged this year by former House Speaker Newt Gingrich) has taken hold.

A footnote: A challenge to his House colleagues by Republican Rep. Lynn Westmoreland of Georgia to sign a letter pledging that ‘‘I will vote to increase U.S. oil production to lower gas prices for Americans’’ began Thursday morning with 72 signatures and by mid-afternoon had reached 152. Only one was a Democrat: Neal Abercrombie of Hawaii, which has especially high gasoline prices. Signatures also were mounting on two petitions to force Democratic-controlled committees to send to the House floor two mandatory oil-drilling bills.

Let's keep swamping Congressional phone lines until they respond to the will of the American people.

Daily Update on Rep. Westmoreland's Pledge

Dan Kotman — 6/20/2008

A reader had a great suggestion of daily reporting on Rep. Lynn Westmoreland's pledge so they know whether or not their Congressman has signed it.

The first report had 19 signers. As of two days ago, that number skyrocketed to 72 House members.

Today, I'm excited to share the number has jumped to 170 members of Congress who have signed this pledge: "I will vote to increase U.S. oil production to lower gas prices for Americans."

Read on for the full list...

America’s Business with Mike Hambrick

Dan Kotman — 6/20/2008

Newt was recently on NAM's radio program "America's Business with Mike Hambrick" talking about the "Drill Here, Drill Now, Pay Less" petition and America's huge untapped energy resources.

Take a listen to the interview here and subscribe to their podcast feed for future programming here.

Developing More American Energy

Dan Kotman — 6/19/2008

In an op-ed in today's New York Post, Newt outlines four areas of development of American energy resources. Here's an except:

If we want less expensive gasoline, diesel and other fuels and to reduce our dependence on foreign dictators, then we have to demand that politicians cut through the red tape and put policies in place that will increase domestic production.

It isn't possible to regulate, tax or sue our way to lower fuel prices. While alternative energies are desirable in the long term, Americans need relief now.

The fact is, there's no reason why Americans can't have safe, abundant and relatively inexpensive energy.

America still has the world's largest supply of fossil fuels. We have more coal than any other country by a huge margin. We have abundant oil and gas reserves. We have the potential for nuclear, wind, solar and biofuels in tremendous quantities.

And, critically, America is still technologically the most advanced nation in the world, despite decades of bad policies and politics.

Read the whole thing here.

1,000,000 Voices

Dan Kotman — 6/19/2008

In 30 days, thanks to your help and support, we reached 1,000,000 signatures on the "Drill Here, Drill Now, Pay Less" petition! It truly has become a nationwide grassroots movement.

We've seen tremendous progress this week with President Bush, Senator McCain, and Governor Crist all talking about lifting the federal ban on offshore drilling. But this is only the beginning.

Now, we need your help to get to 3 million signatures by the both parties' national conventions this fall. And we need you to tell your Senators and Representatives that it's time to stop talking and start drilling.

Thanks for standing with us for real change.

TV Ad Debuts on Hannity and Colmes

Dan Kotman — 6/18/2008

We debuted this national television ad, "Drill For American Oil," tonight on Hannity and Colmes.

Update on Westmoreland's Pledge

Dan Kotman — 6/18/2008

As I blogged about two days ago, Rep. Lynn Westmoreland is circulating a pledge to members of Congress that reads: "I will vote to increase to U.S. oil production to lower gas prices for Americans."

With 72 House members signed on, the pledge is gaining momentum.

Read on for the full list of signers...

900,000 Signatures and Growing

Dan Kotman — 6/18/2008

We just hit 900,000 signatures on the "Drill Here, Drill Now, Pay Less" petition, and the momentum continues to grow.

FOX News did a report on the petition drive this morning, and mentioned our research data that "73% of the American people agree that with appropriate safeguards to protect the environment, we should drill for oil off America's coasts to reduce our dependence on foreign oil."

Senator DeMint Signs 'Drill Here, Drill Now' Petition

Dan Kotman — 6/18/2008

Senator Jim DeMint posted this video today announcing he has joined nearly 900,000 Americans who have signed the "Drill Here, Drill Now, Pay Less" petition.

5 Places to Drill

Dan Kotman — 6/17/2008

The big news today is that Senator John McCain called for an end to the federal offshore drilling ban. This is a noticable shift for McCain, who has previously opposed any type of drilling. The Department of Interior estimates the U.S. has 19 billion barrels of oil offshore that are currently illegal to develop and therefore inaccessible.

With that in mind, watch this great video from Amanda Carpenter on 5 places we can start drilling domestically now.

More Media for 'Drill Here, Drill Now'

Dan Kotman — 6/17/2008

We just reached 850,000 signatures and that number keeps growing rapidly--more rapidly than reporters can write articles.

Jeff Birnbaum's column in today's Washington Post mentions the "Drill Here, Drill Now, Pay Less" petition at 750,000 signatures:

Sometimes the most difficult problems can be handled with the easiest solutions. At least that's what it looks as though former House speaker Newt Gingrich (R-Ga.) has been able to pull off on the issue of oil exploration.

Congress has tied itself in knots over whether to permit more domestic drilling for oil and gas. But Gingrich, through his organization, American Solutions for Winning the Future, has come up with a phrase that has inspired a torrent of support via the Internet.

In just three weeks, more than 750,000 people have signed on to a cyber-petition that endorses the phrase "Drill Here, Drill Now, Pay Less." In a single day last week, nearly 100,000 people endorsed the simple-to-understand concept.

"It's far exceeded all of our expectations," said Dan Kotman, spokesman for the group.

The price of gasoline certainly helps.

Gingrich plans to collect 3 million names and present them (no doubt with a media-heavy flourish) at both parties' national conventions at the end of the summer. At this rate, he'll have no trouble reaching that goal.

And the Wall Street Journal recently noted that we passed the 500,000 mark on the petition:

As oil prices have hit records, proponents of drilling in new areas have increased pressure on Congress. A group led by the former House Speaker Newt Gingrich said Wednesday that its "Drill Here, Drill Now, Pay Less" petition drive had netted half a million signatures.

New Rasmussen Poll on Drilling

Dan Kotman — 6/17/2008

Rasmussen has a new poll out today on offshore drilling. They found that 67% of the American people support offshore drilling, and 64% expect it will lower gas prices. Sounds like a majority to me.

From the release:

A new Rasmussen Reports telephone survey—conducted before McCain announced his intentions on the issue--finds that 67% of voters believe that drilling should be allowed off the coasts of California, Florida and other states. Only 18% disagree and 15% are undecided. Conservative and moderate voters strongly support this approach, while liberals are more evenly divided (46% of liberals favor drilling, 37% oppose).

Sixty-four percent (64%) of voters believe it is at least somewhat likely that gas prices will go down if offshore oil drilling is allowed, although 27% don’t believe it. Seventy-eight percent (78%) of conservatives say offshore drilling is at least somewhat likely to drive prices down. That view is shared by 57% of moderates and 50% of liberal voters.

Nearly all voters are worried about rising gas and energy prices, with 79% very concerned and 16% somewhat concerned.

Rep. Graves Signs 'Drill Here, Drill Now, Pay Less' Petition

Dan Kotman — 6/16/2008

U.S. Representative Sam Graves from Missouri held a press conference today to sign the "Drill Here, Drill Now, Pay Less" petition.

From the Kansas City Star:

Graves is an incumbent Republican whose 6th District includes the Northland and Blue Springs. He used the press conference to publicly sign his name to a national “Drill Here. Drill Now. Pay Less.” petition asking Congress to authorize additional domestic oil exploration, with Alaska and the Gulf of Mexico viewed as possible spots.

The petition is promoted by American Solutions for Winning the Future, a new public policy group led by former Republican Congressman Newt Gingrich. According to an American Solutions spokesman, about two dozen current congressional members support the petition.

UPDATE: Here's video from the press conference.

'Drill Here, Drill Now' Goes to Texas

Dan Kotman — 6/16/2008

I had the pleasure of travelling with Newt this past Friday for his speech to the Texas GOP Convention.

KTRK, Houston's ABC affiliate, has video of Newt's entire press conference where he talks about the success of the "Drill Here, Drill Now, Pay Less" petition and announces the new Chuck Norris video. Read more about the press conference here.

As usual, Newt hit a home run during his speech, as the crowd gave numerous standing ovations and even began chanting "Drill Here, Drill Now, Pay Less." And there were bumper stickers everywhere.

From the Dallas Morning News:

Former House Speaker Newt Gingrich urged more energy exploration in the U.S. and Atlantic Ocean. "We can now have a great debate, and the American public is going to pay attention," he said. "Drill here. Drill now. Pay less."

Read on for more coverage from the convention...

Getting Congressman on Record on Drilling

Dan Kotman — 6/16/2008

Representative Lynn Westmoreland is circulating a pledge in the House related to using more domestic energy resources.

Here's the text of the pledge:

I will vote to increase U.S. oil production to lower gas prices for Americans.

Here are the Representatives who have signed so far:

Lynn Westmoreland (R-Ga.)
Tom Price (R-Ga.)
Paul Broun (R-Ga.)
Phil Gingrey (R-Ga.)
Patrick McHenry (R-NC)
Wally Herger (R-Calif.)
George Radanovich (R-Calif.)
Pat Tiberi (R-Ohio)
Mike Conaway (R-Texas)
John Culberson (R-Texas)
Tom Reynolds (R-NY)
Greg Walden (R-Ore.)
Bill Shuster (R-Pa.)
Thaddeus McCotter (R-Mich.)
Dan Burton (R-Ind.)
Judy Biggert (R-Ill.)
Tom Feeney (R-Fla.)
Tom Latham (R-Iowa)
Todd Tiahrt (R-Kan.)

If your Representative is not on the the list, give them a call and encourage them to sign Rep. Westmoreland's pledge to increase U.S. oil production.

UPDATE: Here's more on Westmoreland's pledge.

YouTube Legend Reports on Another YouTube Legend

Dan Kotman — 6/13/2008

In his daily video segment, YouTube innovator James Kotecki talks about another YouTube legend, Chuck Norris.

Take a watch:

Chuck Norris Drills Congress

Dan Kotman — 6/13/2008

The American people want to drill here and drill now. Congress says NO. But Congress can't override Chuck Norris' veto.

In this new video, Chuck Norris wants to "roundhouse kick this pump all the way into the next county." He's not the only one fed up with high gas prices. So are the more than 650,000 Americans who have signed the "Drill Here, Drill Now, Pay Less" petition..

The American people want real solutions to our energy challenges, and Chuck Norris is leading the charge.

Put your favorite Chuck fact in the comments below.

UPDATE: Chuck mentions this video in his latest column.

Chuck Norris: "Drill Now, Pay Less"

Dan Kotman — 6/11/2008

Chuck Norris was on Fox & Friends this morning talking about the "Drill Here, Drill Now, Pay Less" petition drive.

Here's the video:

UPDATE: Here's Norris' recent column: Congress, get off your gas, and drill!

500,000 Signatures!

Dan Kotman — 6/10/2008

We just hit 500,000 petition signers! Thanks for helping us spread the word. Next milestone: one million signatures by July 4.

Voters Say Drill

Dan Kotman — 6/10/2008

As gas and diesel prices continue to rise, the cost of oil is now the number one campaign issue. The American people want to drill now, but neither candidate is listening, writes Larry Kudlow in a must-read column today.

Public worry number one is now oil, jobs, and the economy, with the inflationary woes of the U.S. dollar right underneath. The candidate who can connect with these issues will win in November. But so far neither Obama nor McCain are dealing with the new political reality.

In fact, it’s all about oil right now. The price has doubled over the past year while the economy has slumped.

But here’s an eye opener. Recent polling data from Gallup show the percentage of voters blaming oil companies for skyrocketing gasoline prices has dropped from 34 percent to 20 percent over the past year. At the same time, support for more drilling in U.S. coastal and wilderness areas has increased to 57 percent from 41 percent.

And the candidates remain blind to these shifts.

Read the whole thing.

Jim Cramer: Drill Off Both Coasts

Dan Kotman — 6/9/2008

Towards the end of this interview, Jim Cramer is asked what the presidential candidates can do to lower gas prices. His answer? Start drilling off of both coasts. "I'm a conservationist but enough is enough," he says.

Cramer is right. Enough is enough. Sign the petition to urge Congress to drill domestically for oil now.

UPDATE: Vote in Hot Air's poll about what you think Congress should do as gas prices increase over $4 per gallon.

Ways to Market "Drill Here, Drill Now, Pay Less"

Dan Kotman — 6/9/2008

Bloggers, check. Talk radio, check. YouTube, check. Second Life, thanks to a supporter who just erected a large billboard there, check.

What's next? Send us your creative ways to spread the word about our "Drill Here, Drill Now, Pay Less" campaign.

Here are a couple screen grabs of the Second Life billboard:

"Drill Here, Drill Now, Pay Less" on Talk Radio

Dan Kotman — 6/6/2008

Our "Drill Here, Drill Now, Pay Less" couldn't have been so successful without the help of some great bloggers and talk radio hosts.

Earlier, I provided some blogger links; now, here's some talk radio links for your perusal.

If your favorite local radio station is not listed, give them a call today and tell them about the petition drive.

To start us off, here's a quote from Rush on his show last week:

By the way, Newt Gingrich sent me a note the other day and asked me to mention something and this would be a good time to do it. He's got his website: American Solutions.com. You can go sign a petition there. What Newt's trying to do is get a whole bunch of, hundreds of thousands of signatures from people on the concept of drill here, drill now, and pay less, as a means of two things: Get the concept in the minds and hearts of these 535 dolts in Washington that drilling here and now is the answer to these problems that everybody is running around moaning about.

Glenn Beck talked with Newt about the peition.

So did Neal Boortz.

And Sean Hannity put our "Drill Here, Drill Now, Pay Less" bumper sticker on his website:

Read on for more radio shows....

350,000 Strong for 'Drill Here, Drill Now, Pay Less"

Dan Kotman — 6/5/2008

Today, we delivered 350,000 signatures to the Senate urging them to drill for oil domestically. The message is clear: hard-working families are struggling to pay high gas prices and they are demanding immediate action from Congress.

This is just the first round of petition deliveries. As our movement continues to grow, it's our goal to have 3 million petition signatures by both parties' conventions this fall.

Here's a video of us delivering the signatures:

First U.S. Oil Refinery in 30 Years

Dan Kotman — 6/5/2008

A South Dakota county voted yesterday to approve a proposal to build the first new U.S. oil refinery in 30 years.

Other informative energy-related reading:

Forcing Fuel Flexibility -- Cliff May
Oil Crisis Solved By Resources, Not Gimmicks -- Kathryn Jean Lopez
Shocked! How the oil crisis has hit the world
How we can fix U.S. Energy Policy -- Congressman Paul Ryan
The Gas Prices We Deserve -- George Will

New Research on Domestic Energy Resources

Dan Kotman — 6/4/2008

We released new research data today on domestic energy resources. The data clearly confirms the overwhelming response we've received via emails, letters, and phone calls during our Drill Here, Drill Now, Pay Less campaign: the American people believe it's commonsense to work here at home to solve America's energy challenges.

In fact, 81% of the American people support the U.S. using more of its own domestic energy resources, including the oil and coal already here, to combat the rising cost of energy and reduce dependence on foreign energy sources.

As the chart below suggests, the agreement is widespread regardless of political affiliation.

New Radio Ad: Gas Prices

Dan Kotman — 6/4/2008

We have a new 60-second ad up on radio stations about the soaring price of gasoline and our nationwide petition drive to Drill Here, Drill Now, Pay Less. You can listen to the ad here.

If you have a blog or website, we also have these Drill Here, Drill Now, Pay Less banner ads at your disposal.

Drill Here, Drill Now, Pay Less - ON THE AIRWAVES!

Princella Smith — 6/4/2008

Because of the contagious momentum of the Drill Here, Drill Now, Pay Less movement, I’ve been presented with two opportunities to share the message of our energy policy on radio this week.

Monday, I was featured on “Your Turn” on 1330 WEBY where the host agreed to link the Drill Here, Drill Now petition to her site. WEBY is the largest am station on the gulf coast between Tampa and New Orleans.

Tuesday, I joined Warren Monks on WAMD Radio located in Aberdeen, Maryland.

XM Satellite Radio will host me on Saturday, June 7 from 11:30 – 12 noon est. where I’ll hopefully be able to tout 400,000 + signatures! (We’re currently at 337,171. )

Sign, Sign, Sign! And, tell your friends to sign! Let Congress know that you stand for REAL CHANGE.

Drill Now Campaign ACTION ALERT

Dan Kotman — 6/3/2008

This week the Senate is debating the Boxer-Warner-Lieberman Gas Tax Hike bill.

If adopted, this bill will lead to an increase in gas prices by as much as $3.00 per gallon in the next two decades.

Call the Senate switchboard at (202) 224-3121 and urge your Senators to vote against the Boxer-Warner-Lieberman Gas Tax Hike. Tell them that gas prices are high enough and we need real solutions, not more taxes.

If you get a response from your Senator's office -- either positive or negative -- share them in the comments below.

American Solutions Asks America About Gas Prices

Dan Kotman — 5/30/2008

We stopped by some gas stations to ask Americans how high gas prices are affecting their lives. With gas at $4.00 per gallon, the answers we got were not that surprising. The American people want Congress to start drilling now.

After you watch the video, subscribe to our YouTube channel to get updates when we post new videos.

We Reached 100,000 Signatures!

Dan Kotman — 5/29/2008

Last night we reached our goal of 100,000 signatures for the "Drill Here, Drill Now, Pay Less" petition! The response has been so amazing, we've decided to set a new goal of 200,000 by next week.

Help us reach our goal by encouraging your friends and family to sign the petition.

A special thanks to the following blogs (in no particular order) for helping us spread the word. I'm sure I missed several posts. If I missed yours, put a link in the comments and I'll add it to the list.

Newt.org
Chamber Post
Shop Floor
Pat Dollard
The Radio Patriot
Monkey Crash
Rochester Conservative
The Blogging Councilor
No Sheeples Here
Truman's Take
Wake Up America
Conservative Principles
The Lonely Conservative
At Home and in the Garden
Mad Irish Man's Conservative Consortium
Rob Boyce
Backyard Conservative
1 Declaration
Copious Dissent
Jeremy Sarber
Life as it happens
Tai-Chi Policy
The Daily Soap Box
Tony Phyrillas
Strategy File
AubreyJ.org
Darke Blog
Steve's Blogspot
Axis of Right
American Truckers At War
Talk Junkie
Radio Vice Online
Stop The ACLU
Stepping Right
Right Wing News
Save The GOP
Don Surber
The Bald Monkey
Rob Bluey
Lost Conservative
Monoblogue
Crystal's Randomness
PoliPundit
Life on the Road
bRight & Early
Creeping Sharia
Freedom Nation

Fight Back Against High Gas Prices

Dan Kotman — 5/28/2008

In his newsletter today, Newt writes about our "Drill Here, Drill Now, Pay Less" petition and our goal of 100,000 signatures to present to the Senate next week before the debate Warner-Lieberman:

The petition is simple but powerful. It says:

We, therefore, the undersigned citizens of the United States, petition the U.S. Congress to act immediately to lower gasoline prices by authorizing the exploration of proven energy reserves to reduce our dependence on foreign energy sources from unstable countries.

In just a few short days, over 45,000 Americans have signed the pledge.

And with your help, as the Senate begins to debate Warner-Lieberman, American Solutions will present the names of 100,000 of their constituents who will hold them accountable if they fail to allow America the freedom to use its own energy resources instead of relying on foreign dictators.

Americans truly have a choice – a choice between the Pay More, Send More Money to Foreign Dictators and Cripple America Left and the Produce More, Enjoy More, Pay Less, Stengthen American Center-Right Majority.

Make your choice by visiting americansolutions.com/drillnow.

Read Newt's entire newsletter here.