Gas prices that cruised past $4 a gallon over the summer shocked consumers but had a silver lining: reenergizing the debate over America's dependency on fossil fuels. As commuters moved to smaller cars or hopped on buses, there was a sense of urgency behind the calls to expand domestic energy supplies while laying the foundation for a future in which more clean, renewable fuel helps power the nation.

So it's extremely frustrating that the presidential election, with relatively few weeks left, has become mired in a swamp of nonissues like salvos over lipstick on pigs and tussles over which of the candidates is a bigger celebrity.

Don't get distracted. At a time where there are so many pressing problems facing the United States, ensuring the nation has a sensible, sustainable energy policy may be the most important step taken at this time to secure the nation's future. And there are hopeful signs that the country is moving in the right direction.

Take the recent political conventions. Neither the Democrats nor the Republicans loaded theirs with actual policy details. But energy independence was one issue that cropped up in both presidential candidates' speeches -- a welcome development, even though decreased energy dependence is a far more realistic goal. Both candidates have also elaborated far more thoughtful plans on their campaign websites, where they also address climate change, a surprisingly under-the-radar campaign issue.

On Capitol Hill, there are noteworthy efforts by both parties to tackle energy policy head-on. There's serious discussion taking place about offshore drilling -- a dialogue this Editorial Board continues to support. Expanding this source of oil is no panacea for the energy crisis, but its role in transitioning the nation to renewable energy should not be dismissed.

The congressional ban on offshore drilling expires at the end of this month. After pressure from House Republicans and the bipartisan "Gang of 10" in the Senate, congressional representatives in the House will likely vote this week on a measure to allow more coastal exploration. In this case, oil companies could drill 50 miles or further out off coasts of willing states or 100 miles out from any part of the American coast. After decades of Democratic opposition to offshore drilling, Republicans are skeptical whether this measure would allow enough coastal exploration. In turn, Republican proposals may go too far. The House Republicans' American Energy Act calls for drilling in the national treasure that is the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge.

The danger is that offshore drilling will hijack the entire debate. It shouldn't. The nation deserves to hear more details from both parties about alternative fuels development, nuclear energy and greenhouse gas emissions policy. One issue in particular that's been underplayed: conservation and how to encourage it. Another key issue has also emerged: rooting out corruption in a Department of the Interior branch dealing with offshore leases and royalties. This week, disturbing reports surfaced alleging that federal employees took gifts from oil companies or had sex with staffers.

Without a doubt, the nation has hit critical mass when it comes to consensus on this point: It's time to do something. Let's capitalize on the current momentum and push forward to find real energy solutions.