SANTA FE (AP) - Should the U.S. try to drill its way out of dependence on foreign oil?

The Republican candidate for Congress in northern New Mexico says yes, at least for short-term relief.

The Democratic nominee and two independents running for the seat say no.

The quartet of candidates for the 3rd District seat outlined their positions on energy and other issues at a forum tonight.

GOP candidate Dan East says while there needs to be investment in alternative energy, it’s neither readily available nor economically viable right now.

Democratic nominee Ben Ray Lujan and independents Carol Miller and Ron Simmons talked about the need for alternative energy.

The candidates are vying to succeed Democratic U.S. Representative Tom Udall, who is running for the seat being vacated by Republican U.S. Senator Pete Domenici.

(Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)