PLATFORM

      Campaign 2006  Planks:      
    
        
      Offshore Drilling

I will oppose any measure that calls for the expansion of oil and gas drilling off the coast of Florida. Florida’s beaches are a national treasure and they are the linchpin of our state’s economy. The threat to our beaches from a potential oil spill is too great a risk to accept. In the event of an oil spill or a drilling accident I will insist on an immediate cleanup by the federal government. As governor I will also call up the National Guard to deal with the consequences of any spill. Damage to our beaches must be repaired immediately and completely. If the federal government expands drilling in the Gulf of Mexico I will put Washington on notice that it is financially liable for the consequences. I will personally deliver a bill to Washington for the cleanup of any spill or remediation of any accident. If there is any delay in payment from Washington I will file suit against the federal government in federal court. Four states, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama and Texas now benefit from the revenues of drilling in the Gulf. Yet we in Florida are at risk. I feel that revenues from existing Gulf drilling should be shared with Florida and put in a trust fund to assist with cleaning up the environment and developing Florida’s unique energy potential.