The Honorable Maria Cantwell's Speech before the

Democratic National Convention

Wednesday, July 28, 2004

BOSTON, July 29 /PRNewswire/ -- The following is a transcript of a speech by The Honorable Maria Cantwell, before the Democratic National Convention on Wednesday, July 28, 2004:

In 1969 American Investment created the DARPANET. Most Americans won't recognize that name, or remember that this agency's research led to the development of the Internet.

Now America has a new opportunity - developing a 21st Century energy plan. But we are not stepping up to this challenge.

Instead there are those in Washington who think our energy plan can be developed behind closed doors. That our energy plan can be left to the influence of special interests. That the Enrons and Halliburtons count more in developing our energy strategy then ordinary citizens.

Well, I have a message from Washington State to those special interests in Washington, D.C.: Our nation's energy plan is not for sale to the highest bidder.

John Kerry understands that energy policy is not a tool for political gain, but a necessity for the economic security of a great nation.

Energy is the lifeblood of our economy - it keeps our cars running, our companies competitive, our citizens safe and our nation secure.

John Kerry will not leave the United States vulnerable to international interests that can change the price of gasoline by simply suppressing supply. John Kerry has a real energy plan. One that won't over-invest in fossil fuel, but one that invests in wind power, wave power, solar power, hydrogen power and the ingenuity of American brain power.

Just like the Internet, the energy web will create American jobs. In John Kerry's America, steel workers won't lose their jobs because electricity is manipulated. Seniors won't sit in the dark because power prices are gamed for profits. And there will be no place in John Kerry's America for energy traders who joke about making Grandma Millie pay more.

The last Massachusetts senator that became president of the United States led a new generation of Americans to put a man on the moon. Now this Massachusetts senator, John Kerry, is going to lead our generation of Americans to energy independence. John Kerry's plan won't have a moon landing, but it will be a giant step toward guaranteeing America's security and our future economic success.

Source: Democratic National Convention Committee

CONTACT:  Peggy Wilhide of the Democratic National Convention Committee,
+1-617-366-3100

Web site:  http://www.dems2004.org/