Thursday, November 13, 2014

The Race To The Keystone XL Pipeline

++While President Obama's office claimed late in the day he would veto the upcoming legislation approving the Keystone XL Pipeline, the Senate version already has 60 votes and could almost become veto proof.

++To recap some of my arguments,the Keystone XL does not provide an ounce of oil to the United States. The whole argument about energy independence is hokum. 

++In fact, study after study shows it will increase gas prices in the Midwest.

++The Keystone Pipeline is supposed to create jobs. After the initial construction jobs added,only 25 will remain permanent. The American beer industry has 2 million jobs. A couple of Ben and Jerry's would add more jobs than the Keystone Pipeline.

++Despite assurances it will not ruin the Ogalala Aquifer which provides the grain belt with its water,any leak would be ruinous.

++CNBC reported today that the Keystone Pipeline is already obsolete. Tar Sands need an oil price over $100 to make it worthwhile to develop. Today the price is below $80 and the Saudis say it will stay around $75 for a while.

++The primary benefactor of the pipeline was supposed to be the Chinese. The other would be the Koch Brothers who stand to make a killing from their Tar Sands holdings. Yesterday, the Chinese said they don't want our dirty oil since they have made a commitment to accelerate solar, wind and hydroelectric energy.

++The Canadian firm Endridge already has their own Keystone pipeline which goes from Alberta down the West Coast.

++But it doesn't matter,Cassidy and Landrieu have to muscle this one out. Does President Obama really want to veto it or simply let market forces kill it? We'll see this week.

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