As a follow up to the May 13 post regarding the Infrastructure Jobs and Energy Independence Act, on May 18, 2011, the Senate rejected a bill written by Senate GOP leader Mitch McConnell to speed up decision-making on drilling permits and force previously scheduled lease sales in the Gulf of Mexico and off the Alaska and Virginia coasts.  This occurred 4 days after President Obama directed his administration to ramp up U.S. oil production.  Five Republicans and 52 Democrats/Independents rejected this bill; both parties express that they want to see responsible oil and gas drilling, but do not agree on the approach.