[Quote: Originally Posted by wallstreetcappers]
The discussion is not concerning which method is more environmentally destructive, as they all are...the thread is about the pipeline and controversy around it, benefits and costs of having it.
So discussing rigs or barges or trains etc doesnt mean pipelines are above reproach.
Those
for Keystone will bring up rigs & rail because one of the arguments used
against Keystone is the "safety issue." At worst it will be no more dangerous than the ways we are already transporting oil. And because we learn from the mistakes of the past Keystone should be better built.
How many times have the right been accused of going against Obama's legislation because he is a Democrat: Obamacare, Stimulus, etc.
I think Democrats are against Keystone because Republicans are for it. Some of the benefits of Keystone is what Democrats always call for...
Infrastructure: We always hear from Democrats about investing in infrastructure, which is pretty vague. Keystone is specific infrastructure. This is an example of Democrat hypocrisy.
Jobs: We always hear about those jobs investing in infrastructure will create (shovel ready jobs). Once again that is pretty vague. The jobs Keystone will create are specific, concrete jobs. Plenty on the left will say those are temporary jobs. Well so are those vague "investing in infrastructure jobs" so their argument loses credibility there. Another example of Democrat hypocrisy.
Now think about the permanent jobs it creates. I pointed this out in an earlier post. Those companies that make the pipes, pumps, valves, etc may be in a state where you live, not along the pipeline route. They will constantly be constructing the equipment to run the pipes because of wear & tear and future improvements.
We also have to take in account the jobs it will create in states like Texas and Louisiana at the refineries. Because of the influx of raw material permanent jobs will be created in those states to keep up with demand.
And last but not least, the more oil we produce, the less we will depend on foreign oil.