Energy
Our nation’s energy policy affects multiple aspects of our everyday lives. How we get to work, how hardworking families must plan their budget, and the strength of our overall economy are just a few of these aspects.
While we all agree we must find and encourage new alternative energy sources, there is a disconnect between the President’s rhetoric and his actions on currently available resources. We have so many opportunities to open American sources of energy, and decrease our reliance on the Middle East, yet nothing is being done to take advantage of these opportunities.
The Keystone XL Pipeline project, passed with my support in the House but rejected by the President, could have immediate returns both in terms of lowering gas prices and creating jobs – 20,000 to be exact. Ending the moratorium in the Gulf of Mexico is another option which will create tens of thousands of jobs, and I’ve cosponsored House-passed legislation to accomplish that. In all, I have voted for and cosponsored more than 10 bills to revitalize our current energy infrastructure while also looking to the future.
Since the President took office, gas prices have nearly doubled. It is clear his actions do not match his rhetoric. We have to reenergize our energy policy utilizing the resources we already have, not just by hoping new technologies will all of a sudden do it for us.