Pipeline is safer way to transport oil

To the editor:

The Senate failed to pass legislation to allow the building of the Keystone XL pipeline by only one vote. There is no question that a pipeline to transport crude oil is safer for the environment than shipment by rail or truck. Our government will miss out on income taxes on wages earned by manufactures, fabricators, builders and pipeline owners. Locals will miss out on property taxes. This Canadian oil will be shipped and sold on the world market regardless of administration action. The oil will be moved and sold period.

It appears the Democrat Party is more willing to bow to environmentalists than to allow workers and the middle class to better itself. Also, it is likely that Louisiana Sen. Mary Landrieu will lose and has been thrown under the proverbial bus by her party even though she was a loyal vote for President Barack Obama's policies.

Why continue to demonize oil? Energy from all sources is necessary to continue or better our prosperity. Think how a person in Haiti would look at accessible energy - their needs are food, medicine, energy and shelter. Think about that when you contemplate a global energy plan.

John Stiegelmeyer

Vinton