Opportunities, challenges facing U.S. energy production

Pete Sessions 
District 17  Representative

On Tuesday, I participated in the House Oversight and Accountability Subcommittee on Economic Growth, Energy Policy, and Regulatory Affairs field hearing in Plano. The focus was squarely on the vital issue of “Drilling Down: Oversight of the Challenges and Opportunities Facing U.S. Energy Production.”

It is increasingly apparent that the policies and regulations introduced by the Biden Administration are steering the United States away from energy security. Their recent pause on liquified natural gas exports is a major indicator of a shift toward prioritizing a climate-based agenda that undermines the long-term energy security and economic health of our nation.

During the hearing, members of Congress and witnesses highlighted the United States’ significant reduction in carbon emissions over the past two decades, contrary to dramatic increases in nations like China. This progress underscores that American energy producers are not just meeting but exceeding global standards for environmentally responsible energy production, exposing the current administration’s regulatory approach as unnecessary and harmful to Americans.

President Biden is making policy decisions to appease far-left progressive advocates at the expense of our nation’s competitiveness on the world stage and American’s wallets at the gas pump.

As we further discussed the broader implications of these policies, it was evident that the choices we make today will define the global landscape. In particular, the halt on new permitting for LNG exports to non-Free Trade Agreement countries will jeopardize America’s energy sector’s growth and our ability to support allies and developing countries.

We stand at a crossroads, where we can either continue to lead in energy production, benefiting from the jobs and economic growth it brings, or we can cede this advantage to the United States’ adversaries.

I am urging President Biden to consider the long-term consequences of our energy policies. We must strive for solutions that bolster our national security and enhance our economic competitiveness. Let us choose a path that ensures a robust and resilient energy future for America.

East Texas natural

resource management

On Wednesday, I toured the Angelina National Forest and the operations at the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Sam Rayburn Reservoir, highlighting the remarkable conservation and infrastructure endeavors that showcase the beauty and utility of Texas’s natural resources.

Accompanied by dedicated individuals like Lynden Wood, the Lake Manager at Sam Rayburn, and Kimpton Cooper, Forest Supervisor at Angelina National Forest, our visit provided an enriching overview of the roles these areas play in East Texas communities and their ecosystems.

Starting our day at the National Forests and Grasslands Supervisor Office, we embarked on a tour of the Angelina National Forest. This offered us a firsthand view of various initiatives. It’s endeavors like these that underscore the commitment of the U.S. Forestry Service and Army Corps of Engineers to not only utilize our lands but to nurture and protect them.

At the USACE Sam Rayburn, the highlight was undoubtedly the dam and power plant operations tour. Observing the meticulous work involved in maintaining and operating these facilities gave me a deeper appreciation for our efforts to maintain adequate energy production.

I am immensely proud of the work being done by our teams at both the Angelina National Forest and the USACE Sam Rayburn. It is through their continuous efforts that we reaffirm our dedication to sustaining Texas’s natural beauty and resources.

Congratulations

Eli Anderson

I am thrilled to share the exciting news that Eli Anderson, an outstanding student from Pflugerville ISD, has accepted an appointment to the United States Naval Academy. Eli’s hard work, leadership, and academic excellence set him apart, and it was my great privilege to nominate him.

This appointment marks a milestone in a rigorous and rewarding journey for Eli. The U.S. Naval Academy will provide an environment where his potential will continue to flourish. I am confident that Eli will embrace this challenge with the same determination and spirit he has shown throughout his academic career.

Please join me in congratulating Eli Anderson. I look forward to witnessing the many ways in which he will contribute to our nation’s future. Well done.

Pete Sessions represents District 17, which includes Trinity County, in the U.S. House of Representatives.