Political Quotes

“Mr. Chair, I thank my friend and Ranking Member Bishop for yielding. Mr. Chair, I rise in strong opposition to this misguided legislation. This legislation will put the United States at a distinct disadvantage with the rest of the world by taking some of our country's most valuable energy deposits off-limits to exploration. By the way, these are the people of the United States' resources. Under the current administration, America is experiencing an energy renaissance. By taking an all-of-the-above approach to energy policy, this administration has kick-started unprecedented growth in our energy production. For the first time since the 1950s, the United States will become a net exporter of oil and natural gas, providing great benefits for our economy and our national security. However, my colleagues on the other side of the aisle want to make these successes short-term phenomena. By permanently putting both the Atlantic and Pacific Outer Continental Shelves off-limits to oil and gas exploration, this bill ties one hand behind our Nation's back. Instead of making potential bountiful energy deposits off-limits to development, this Congress should be interested in making sure that these deposits are responsibly developed. Technological advancements in offshore energy development have made it safer than ever before. Mr. Chair, I urge my colleagues to oppose this legislation.”