Candidates: Share ideas about energy

To the editor:

From a young professional's perspective, it would be refreshing to have candidates come to Iowa and actually speak on specifics about economic issues.

One important component of our economic future is our nation's energy policy. As Iowans, we can be proud to be leaders in renewable energy production. This is an important part of a comprehensive energy plan moving forward.

It would also be wise to strive for diversification in our energy sources, which include the recent boom in domestic natural gas and oil production. This only helps our nation become more energy independent, and economically secure.

One specific policy that seems to make sense is to lift the ban on exporting oil we've been producing. According to the Brookings Institute, 'Lifting the ban generates paramount foreign policy benefits, increases U.S. GDP and welfare and reduces unemployment.”

A bipartisan group of Senators introduced legislation earlier this year to lift the ban. This is only one common sense idea, but an example of specifics candidates should be discussing if they want anyone here to take them seriously regarding their overall economic policy.

Andrew Steahr

Iowa City