Zeldin and Bishop Disagree on Key Energy Initiatives

PATCHOGUE, NY (07/28/2008)(readMedia)-- The Republican candidate for New York's First Congressional District today criticized his opponent's "too little, too late" excuse filled energy rhetoric while continuing to push for a new direction with our nation's energy policy.

"In their current Congressman, the people of Eastern Long Island can always count on more excuses then answers," said Shirley resident Lee Zeldin, the GOP candidate for the Eastern Long Island district. "Since the campaign began, I've championed a proactive response by all levels of government to alleviate the across-the-board burden caused by skyrocketing fuel prices. Unfortunately, my opponent's been too busy vacationing from issues to explain his opposition."

Throughout his campaign, Zeldin has supported measures designed to address immediate challenges while serving as a bridge to future energy solutions. At the same time, over recent months, his opponent has blocked popular energy proposals from being voted on the floor of Congress, which would have passed and would have already begun to move our nation on the right track again. He has been accepting interviews with friendly media while continually dodging debate challenges and calls to discuss why fuel prices have surpassed $4 per gallon.

"I'm here, I'm accessible and I'm not afraid to share my ideas," said Zeldin. "We deserve a representative that's accountable for his actions, and willing to explain himself when the going gets tough." WRIV Radio agreed to host a 30 minute energy policy centered debate on Aug. 6. Zeldin agreed to the debate, which would take place during the first week of Congress' vacation.

Too offset fuel prices, Zeldin wants responsible oil exploration in Alaska and select offshore sites, less red tape to boost the creation of more refineries, and more. While noting that his opponent purposefully blocked such progress, Zeldin also said, "Using more domestic oil resources would not only reduce our reliance on foreign oil, but also would undoubtedly result in a significant reduction in the United States foreign trade deficit."

Likewise, Zeldin's vision for America's future calls for a commitment to developing clean energy alternatives, committing to support initiatives focused on harnessing solar, wind and hydroelectric power sources. Zeldin asked, "If my opponent and his majority party agrees then why haven't they passed the needed legislation by now?"

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Zeldin served as an aide to State Senator Kenneth P. LaValle. The Shirley resident studied at the University at Albany, graduated from Albany Law School, and earned his commission through Army ROTC. He was a paratrooper, prosecutor and magistrate with the 82nd Airborne Division and XVIII Airborne Corps. In the summer of 2006, he was a JAG attorney deployed to Iraq. He is currently an attorney at Raiser & Kenniff on Long Island.

For more information on Lee's campaign please visit us at www.zeldin08.com

Paid for by Lee Zeldin for Congress