McCain calls to lift U.S. oil drilling ban

WASHINGTON

McCain’s plan represents a shift for the presumptive Republican nominee, who supported the offshore drilling ban during his 2000 presidential campaign. Tucker Bounds, a spokesman for the Arizona senator, said McCain understands that voters want action to meet new problems.

McCain previewed a speech he’ll give Tuesday in Houston. He told reporters at a campaign office outside of Washington that he continues to oppose drilling in some areas, including the Alaskan wilderness. “But I certainly think that there are areas off our coasts that should be open to exploration and exploitation,” he added.

USA Today