On September 2, 2008, I was proud to travel to Washington to lend my voice to the energy protest on the House floor my Republican colleagues have kept up since the day House Democrat Speaker Nancy Pelosi adjourned the House for five weeks rather than take up consideration of a real energy bill. I and my Republican colleagues would have preferred - and were prepared - to stay in Washington during the Olympics and Conventions to work out the details of the American Energy Act, which has bipartisan support. Now, with the full support of the American people behind us, my colleagues and I look forward to doing the hard work to put together an energy bill that guarantees American energy independence.

The Moment of Truth         

Speaker Nancy Pelosi gaveled the House back into session today. This following five uninterrupted weeks of House Republicans occupying the House floor without C-SPAN’s cameras, sufficient lighting, or microphones, to demonstrate to the American people our commitment to passing an “All of the Above” energy bill that includes:

1.      Increased domestic energy exploration & production;

2.      Incentives for clean renewable and alternative energy technologies; and

3.      Incentives for conservation and fuel efficiency.

We need a bill that expands domestic energy exploration off-shore and in ANWR as a bridge to alternatives and renewables, which are our future. We cannot do one or the other; we must do both. Furthermore, we need to continue to provide incentives to individuals and businesses that “go green” and provide tax rebates for those who choose to purchase more fuel-efficient vehicles. 

If Speaker Pelosi continues to ignore the will of the American people, our long-term fiscal health, national security, and energy independence will loom as a dark cloud.

I support an open process whereby all members can offer amendments rather than using the suspension calendar to quell dissent and score political points. Gotcha tactics, poison pills, and shiny frills are not acceptable. We need a clean bill that addresses our real energy problems with real energy solutions. Our airlines, schools, police departments, and small businesses deserve a comprehensive bill now.

I am honored to represent the 24th District of Texas. Please contact my District or DC office with any further questions you may have.