While Freidman categorically views more domestic drilling as a short sighted solution to a complicated energy debacle, it is important to mention that there have been few credible proposals from either party or environmental organizations for expeditiously reducing the high gas prices that are at the center of current arguments. And to be fair the broader American public, though it has scaled back its driving habits, could also do a much better job protecting the environment (and our wallets) by conserving gas.

Although I personally agree almost entirely with Friedman's hard hitting piece I do have to pause and question his longstanding commitment to pursuing greater nuclear energy capabilities in the U.S. Environmental justice needs to be considered from all angles within the energy debates - the economic hardships of high gas prices should not be outweighed by nuclear health hazards and neither should be trumped by national security concerns.