Maxwell Frost: “not only has there been a failure of leadership on the part of the Republican majority when it comes to energy…”

“not only has there been a failure of leadership on the part of the Republican majority when it comes to energy independence, there has been a concerted effort to undercut the efforts of the administration to address energy issues. In fact, members of the Republican leadership have jeopardized our abilities to address our energy needs by attempting to abolish the Department of Energy, slashing energy efficiency programs, and selling off the strategic petroleum reserve. In the past few weeks, as the price of gasoline has soared, the Republican majority has offered not one solution to America's consumers. Instead, where American families see an energy crisis that jeopardizes their summer vacations, Republican leaders see an opportunity to score political points and cover up their 6-year record of negligence on energy independence. The Republicans have cut crucial energy supply programs by 23 percent below the President's request, including $106 million less than requested for solar and renewable energy programs. They have even cut these programs by $61 million below the current appropriation. The Republican bill also cuts research by $320 million, or 10 percent below the President's request.”