Western South Dakota News

U.S. Senate Majority Leader John Thune addressed the Senate floor, criticizing President Biden's recent energy policies. According to Thune, Biden has implemented a comprehensive ban on new offshore oil and gas development across significant portions of the U.S., including the East Coast, parts of the West Coast, the eastern Gulf of Mexico, and sections of Alaska's Northern Bering Sea.

Thune stated that this decision restricts more than 625 million acres from new oil and gas development. He remarked that "the president’s decision last week was particularly notable for its size – and for the clear snub to American voters." This move is part of a broader series of actions by President Biden against conventional energy development, according to Thune.

Thune outlined several measures taken by the administration, such as pausing approvals for liquefied natural gas exports and reducing leases for oil and natural gas on public lands. He also mentioned restrictions on drilling in Alaska's National Petroleum Reserve and cancellation of Arctic leases.

The senator expressed concerns about future energy production capabilities, stating that "insufficient conventional energy production could mean big increases in energy bills for American families" due to reduced domestic supply or reliance on costly imports. He warned about potential supply shortages leading to long lines for gasoline or electricity rationing.

Additionally, Thune highlighted national security risks associated with dependence on foreign energy sources. He noted that relying on hostile nations could be problematic, citing European experiences after Russia's invasion of Ukraine as an example.

Despite these challenges, Thune remains optimistic about upcoming changes under a new administration. He believes that "President Trump is committed to reversing President Biden’s anti-conventional-energy policies" and hopes for bipartisan support in prioritizing American energy security in future administrations.