The House of Representatives today unanimously passed an amendment by Congressman Dennis Kucinich (D-OH) to HR 5175, the Democracy is Strengthened by Casting Light on Elections (DISCLOSE) Act.  The amendment will prevent companies that receive federal leases that allow them to drill in the Outer Continental Shelf (OCS) from spending unlimited amounts of money to influence campaigns and elections. 

“If the tragedy unfolding in the Gulf of Mexico has taught us anything, it is that oil companies put profits above the delicate and complex ecological systems on which we all depend. Prevention of future disasters begins with curbing their excessive political influence.

“There can be no doubt that the oil industry has strategically and brilliantly used its powerful influence to maintain or even worsen our addiction to oil.  They are not entirely to blame though.  Much of the blame rests with Congress as well for being addicted to oil company contributions.  We must begin to break the addictions. 

"Energy companies may be able to drill for oil in the Outer Continental Shelf, but my amendment will keep them from drilling for votes in the Capitol at the same time,” said Kucinich.

See a video of the debate here.