The Florida State University/Gannett forum on energy exploration—read, oil drilling in state waters—is well under way.

Act 1: David Rancourt, Southern Strategy lobbyist representing the mostly anonymous oil and gas producers known collectively as Florida Energy Associates, immediately, and repeatedly, invoked God in his remarks. He has already thanked God for “the opportunity to live in the greatest country in the world where we can gather and have a debate like this” and—under questioning about the identities of his clients—described them as “proud and God-fearing” Americans, many of whom are military vets.

(Note: We thank God, and FSU Ch. 4, for letting us watch this at home.)

More on God from Rancourt: “God gave us a special gift in Florida; God gave us the most beautiful beaches in the world, and we have an obligation to protect them.”

State lawmakers notwithstanding, Pinellas County Commissioner Kenneth Welch, a drilling opponent, was actually at bat first tonight. Welch noted—and apparently, exaggerated—FEA’s campaign contributions to elected officials, candidates and parties, which he said totals “more than a quarter-million dollars.”  At the state level, at least, FEA’s contributions total only $125,000— money that went only to the parties, not to any individuals.

That’s OK, Rancourt said. His group has not donated a quarter-mil yet, he said—but he sure hopes they do eventually.

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