Slick Politicians are Covered in Oil Money

Hurricanes Katrina and Rita caused massive oil spills in the Gulf states because platforms and refineries couldn’t withstand hurricane force winds. But apparently some members of Congress can’t withstand pressure from the oil industry. Instead of reducing our dependance on oil, the industry is using the hurricane tragedies as an excuse to actually expand offshore drilling operations to other vulnerable coastal communities.

In fact, the oil industry has poured more than $180 million into the pockets of lawmakers on Capitol Hill – and now they’re calling in favors.

Take Action >> Tell Congress to clean up its act and REDUCE our dependence on oil.

Step 2: Read the letter we've provided. Feel free to edit it.

Dear Senators, Representative,

I am concerned about the oil and gas industry’s efforts to profit off of the devastation created by Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, and the willingness of many members of Congress to help them succeed in doing so.

I understand that the industry has given more than $180 million to Washington politicians over the last 15 years and many feel the need to return the favor.  But allowing them to profit on the backs of the hundreds of thousands of hurricane victims is wrong.

One of the many lessons we have learned from Hurricanes Katrina and Rita is that the United States needs to reduce its dependence on oil, whether it is foreign or domestic.  We should not expand drilling operations by opening up protected areas.

The answer to America’s energy needs is renewable energy like wind and solar.  They are affordable, clean, and reduce our reliance on natural gas and oil.  Additionally, renewable energy sources can power our homes and businesses for less money and without spewing asthma-causing pollutants or contributing to global warming which helps fuel powerful storms like Katrina.

It is also time for a national effort to reduce our energy use.  This effort should start with a long overdue increase in car and truck mileage.  Increased efficiency and conservation is the only way to reduce or dependence on foreign oil, while saving American’s money at the pump and reducing global warming pollution.

You were elected to office to represent people like me, not oil tycoons. I am urging you to oppose any legislation that would increase our country’s reliance on oil.  The oil industry is passing on record prices to the American people while their companies experience record profits. The industry is taking the American people to the cleaners and is doing nothing to protect our health.

In a time of crisis, American families should be protected, not exploited and exposed to further risks.  I urge you to focus on real solutions to our energy and air quality problems rather than pandering to the energy industry like the House.

"Sincerely," and your name and contact information will be added to the end of the letter.

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