Energy

The U.S. is dangerously dependent on imported oil.  We currently import about 60% of the oil we consume, much of it from the Middle East. The Department of Energy projects this number will increase to 73 percent by the year 2025.  This ever-increasing dependence is harmful not only to our economic growth but also our national security as well.  We must find new domestic sources of oil and gas to increase domestic production in an environmentally sensitive manner.

I believe that we must implement a comprehensive energy production and conservation plan to reinvigorate our economy; one that includes tapping our domestic resources while also utilizing all sources of alternative, sustainable energy. As a member of the Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Caucus, I am committed to rapidly expanding the nation’s use of solar, wind, and other power sources. However, as we pursue the energy sources of the future, we must also use the fuels we have today, including coal, natural gas and oil. We must also promote the use of nuclear power by funding innovative research and streamlining the permitting process of new reactors. These principles combined with the development of a transmission policy for the 21st century with increased capacity, security and technology will make the United States less dependent on foreign sources of energy while creating much needed jobs here at home.