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McCain Declares Energy Independence by 2025

From CBS News' Jamie Farnsworth:

Las Vegas, NV – Senator John McCain unveiled the name of his energy project in Las Vegas today as he wrapped up the western swing of his two week energy tour. Deemed the Lexington Project, McCain's plan states the U.S. will be independent of foreign energy sources by the year 2025.

"For the town where Americans asserted their independence once before," McCain explained of the plan's namesake in Virginia. "Let it begin today with this commitment: In a world of hostile and unstable suppliers of oil, this nation will achieve strategic independence by 2025."

McCain called for Americans to unite to complete this task in 17 years. "Much will be asked of industry as well, as automakers and others adapt to this great turn toward new sources of power," he said. "A great deal will depend on each one of us, as we learn to make smarter use of energy, and also to draw on the best ideas of both parties, and work together for the common good."

Foreseeing criticism, McCain listed many historical accomplishments achieved in less than 17 years—among them overthrowing Nazi Germany and landing on the moon.

"That is the scale of our achievement when we set our minds to a task," he said. "That is what this country can do when we see a danger, and declare a purpose, and find the will to act."

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