So: if it isn't the consequence of a push by the oil companies, why ARE parts of ANWR on the verge of being opened for drilling? Three closely related reasons come to mind. First, because the Murkowski family has a long memory. Second, because the US budgetary/legislative process is badly broken. Third, because even if the corporations are not enthusiastic, once the opening takes place there WILL be bids for the rights to drill specified parcels, and the US government badly needs new revenue streams given its state of indebtedness. Late in the Clinton administration (back when Big Oil WAS pressing the point) the House of Representatives voted in favor of a bill to allow some drilling, and Alaskan Senator Frank Murkowski pressed for Senate passage, but couldn't pull it off. Alaska is now represented in the Senate by Lisa Murkowski, Frank's daughter, the woman portrayed above, and she is fervent about the family tradition on this point. T o Ms Murkowski is due appare...
