Fourth Debate Question for the Candidates

Statement

Moderator: The fourth question is for Mr. Forbes. Mr. Forbes, you have stated that you would support drilling for oil off of Virginia's coast. Could you describe your energy policy and describe your vision for the future of America's energy supply?

Mr. Forbes: [no answer given]

Moderator: Dr. LeGrow?

Dr. LeGrow: Well, for starters, while I would support energy generation off of our coast in the form of wind farms, I cannot support a policy that puts our beaches and the Chesapeake Bay in danger of the sort of disaster we saw on the Gulf Coast. Frankly, given the small amount of oil there and the relatively minor impact that would have on our economy, it simply isn't worth the risk. Moreover, offshore wind farms have the potential to generate thousands of new jobs here in Virginia.
More generally, I believe we have to have a forward-looking strategy to reduce, and eventually eliminate, our dependence on fossil fuels. Clean, renewable energy like wind, solar, geothermal, hydroelectric, tidal, and nuclear power are our future, and we need to support policies that encourage the growth of those industries. Ideas like carbon capture and storage are fine ideas, and we should continue to pursue them, but until they are up and running we need to focus on the types of energy that provide jobs, protect our national security, and preserve our environment.

Source