Americans are rightly demanding action on the energy challenges we face as a nation.  As a member of the House Energy SWAT Team, I closed the bipartisan energy debate at Tulane University in New Orleans the Monday before Congress adjourned, making the case for the “all of the above” energy strategy and have participated in all the activities supporting this House Republican position.

Members of the House were not given the opportunity to vote on developing new energy sources in the weeks leading up to the August district work period, so I voted against adjourning. Republicans will not rest and we will not relent until the Speaker of the House, Nancy Pelosi, allows a vote on lifting the congressional moratorium on drilling in the outer continental shelf. States could then decide whether or not to permit energy exploration in the deep water off our coasts.

This is a common sense compromise that now is supported by many Democrats, despite Speaker Pelosi calling this “a hoax on the American people.” We will continue fighting for a responsible energy policy that brings down gas prices. An “all of the above” approach will help us lead the world on energy solutions through conservation, exploration and innovation.