Madam President, I rise to discuss our Nation's energy policy. I was very disappointed by last night's vote. Actually, as one of my colleagues pointed out, it was more political theater instead of a serious attempt at addressing this Nation's energy needs. Instead of investing time on votes that will not bring gas prices down, we need to do what Americans expect us to do; that is, adopt a careful, all-inclusive, comprehensive approach. Put simply, we need to consider our assets and we need to develop those assets in a responsible way. That sounds very simple to the average person but, unfortunately, it seems to allude us here. Last night's vote on a narrow tax issue, that in a very bipartisan way was recognized not to reduce the price of gas, doesn't get us headed in the right direction. If anything, it was a step backward. So I wish to take a more serious look at the energy resources we have in the United States to lay the foundation for the argument that we need to develop these resources--energy that could help address our Nation's security as well as our economic security. Unfortunately, we are a victim of misperception that somehow the United States is running out of energy and that our own resources are not sufficient. But that is not true. In fact, the data tells us that the United States can be a dominant energy power. Let me say that again. The United States can be a dominant energy player--a power--in the global marketplace.…
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I ask for 3 minutes to speak on the Cruz amendment. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without objection, it is so ordered.
If there is not an objection, I ask unanimous consent to speak for 6 to 8 minutes as in morning business. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without objection, it is so ordered. OSHA





