Most of the opinion articles I've read suggest a political strategy behind it. Energy independence is something that almost every American supports and this may put pressure on Republicans to work with Obama in terms of energy, putting them in a catch 22.
I also agree with it from an energy standpoint as long as nuclear and clean energies are being invested alongside it. This is a good short-term strategy but a horrible long-term strategy.
http://blog.newsweek.com/blogs/thega...ouncement.aspx