Today, President Bush rightly chastised Congress for preventing us from using our own natural resources.

But, there is more he can do.

He said he would rescind the executive order banning new coastal oil and natural gas leases only AFTER Congress enacts legislation to allow any finds to actually be developed. GHW Bush signed the first executive order banning new leases until 2002 in 1990. In 1998, Clinton extended the prohibition until 2012. GW Bush could rescind both executive orders with the stroke of a pen and put intense political pressure on Congress to act as well.

Mr. President, you need to lead with action. Rescind the executive orders now! After all, it’s not like your approval ratings can get much worse.