What I wanted from President Obama's "Gulf Disaster Speech"

[Scuba]

Not much really, and pretty easily said and understood.


1. The US Government has no ability to stop the gusher in the Gulf. Right now, we're reliant on BP to stop it from flowing, and far too reliant on BP for other aspects of dealing with this tragedy. Both of these conditions will change, the latter promptly, the former starting with limiting drilling permits to those who can demonstrate it can be done safely. We will regulate this industry with consideration not just for the short-term availability of oil, but also for the long-term protection of the planet that supports our life.

2. We're going to make BP (and others) pay, and pay promptly. We'll use full authority of the Courts and Presidential authority during times of disaster to make this happen.

3. Criminal charges will be brought where warranted and those charged with crimes will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. This includes everyone from corporate executives who may be guilty of negligent homicide to government employees who may have violated their duties in exchange for favors from the oil industry.

4. We are immediately funding a "moon landing and return" type project to develop alternatives to oil for fueling our country. This will take some time, so it is imperative that we begin today.

[blindpig]

1. Well...

we didn't get a 'pony', did we?

But the pony did leave us a 'present'.