Where do Democrats and Republicans stand on national land issues?
Overall, there has been a clear difference between the two parties on this issue which has been demonstrated by key congressional votes. The Democratic platform clearly states the party’s commitment to the preservation of national lands and parks. The Republican platform also states the Republican commitment to national parks. But it also advocates turning over many land protection decisions to state and local governments and indicates a commitment to provide responsible access to logging companies. A major disagreement during the campaign debates between President Bush and Candidate Gore concerned the desirability of drilling for oil on the Artic Wildlife Preserve.
