Congress faces big push on offshore drilling

WASHINGTON (Reuters) – America’s pain at the gasoline pump has been years in the making, but there will be a big push in Congress next week, when lawmakers return from summer break, to fix the problem by expanding offshore oil drilling.

Gasoline prices, down sharply since July, remain high by historical standards, a major issue in the presidential election. Allowing more offshore drilling is seen as the solution by many Americans and politicians.

“Drill, baby, drill!” was the chant from the crowd at this week’s Republican National Convention.

When they left for August recess, lawmakers were in a stalemate over Congress’ offshore drilling moratorium, with Republicans seeking to lift it and Democrats wanting to keep the ban.

Reuters