Central Montana Times

U.S. Senator Steve Daines has accused the Biden administration of playing politics with U.S. energy, specifically regarding the administration's pause on liquefied natural gas (LNG) export approvals. In a recent hearing of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, Daines expressed his concern about the impact of this pause on American jobs and national security.

Daines criticized the administration's decision, stating, "I didn't think I'd live to see the day where you'd have an Administration work to pause and go backwards as relates to liquefied natural gas." He argued that the pause on LNG exports approval is detrimental to the American people, leading to fewer jobs and bolstering adversaries.

The senator questioned the motivation behind this pause, noting that less than a year ago, the Department of Energy denied extreme climate groups' petition to change the Department's process for approving LNG export terminals. He highlighted the inconsistency of the Biden administration's actions, stating, "What changed between last year and now? Nothing." Daines accused the administration of bending to the will of an extreme green agenda and ignoring the needs of hardworking Americans.

Daines pointed to the White House website as evidence of the administration's alignment with anti-fossil fuel activists. He highlighted quotes such as "#StopLNG" and "this is the most significant action taken by the President to curb fossil fuel expansion" as indications of the administration's bias. The senator emphasized that U.S. exports of LNG are beneficial for the economy, jobs, national security, and allies. He argued that the pause on LNG exports will only harm Americans and benefit countries like Russia and Iran.

In conclusion, Senator Daines urged the Biden administration to reconsider its decision and resume consideration of LNG export applications. He emphasized the importance of prioritizing the interests of working families and maintaining the economic and national security benefits that come with LNG exports.

The debate over U.S. energy policy continues, with stakeholders on both sides expressing their concerns and advocating for their respective positions. As the Biden administration navigates the complex landscape of energy and climate policy, it remains to be seen how this pause on LNG export approvals will impact the future of U.S. energy production and international relations.