Senator Lankford Warns of Energy Crisis, Calls for Policy Overhaul

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senator James Lankford of Oklahoma took to the Senate floor to address what he called an impending energy crisis, criticizing the Biden administration’s energy policies and advocating for an approach that prioritizes domestic energy production.

Lankford refuted claims that America’s energy production is at record levels, arguing that despite the current availability of electricity and fuel, future supply constraints could lead to brownouts and increased costs. “We can either deal with that problem two years from now when we’re having brownouts, or we can deal with it now,” he stated.

He pointed to rising energy costs under the Biden administration, noting that gas prices have increased by 30% and electricity costs by 28% over four years. According to Lankford, these price hikes impact every American, particularly those in rural areas who rely on long-distance travel and energy-intensive industries. He stressed the need to maintain America’s status as an energy leader to support technological advancements, including artificial intelligence and data centers, which require reliable and affordable power.

Lankford contrasted the Biden administration’s policies with those of President Trump, crediting Trump’s policies with bolstering domestic energy production. He highlighted Biden’s decision to block drilling on 625 million acres of offshore land and cancel leases in Alaska, actions he claims have forced the U.S. to rely more on foreign oil from countries like Venezuela and Saudi Arabia.

One of Lankford’s key concerns is the push for electric vehicles (EVs). While he acknowledged the benefits of EVs, he criticized government mandates requiring their adoption, citing the inadequacy of the nation’s electric grid to support widespread EV use. “The problem is not electric vehicles, the problem is the mandate,” he said, arguing that rural Oklahomans and farmers face significant challenges with EVs due to range limitations and charging infrastructure.

Lankford outlined legislative efforts to counteract these policies. He referenced his Promoting Domestic Energy Production Act, which aims to ensure that oil and gas companies receive the same tax treatment as other manufacturers. He also discussed the Align Act, which would allow companies to deduct capital investments in the same year they are made, a move he believes would encourage energy infrastructure development and job creation.

Beyond tax policy, Lankford criticized additional fees placed on natural gas production and offshore drilling, which he claims increase consumer costs and hinder domestic energy development. “This is not about reducing the need for energy. It’s about forcing more imports rather than producing at home,” he stated.

Lankford called for a proactive approach to energy policy, warning against short-term thinking that could lead to a crisis in the near future. “Energy policy should be just common sense,” he concluded. “We should at least look two years ahead and anticipate the problems that are coming.”

With his remarks, Lankford signaled his commitment to reversing what he views as harmful energy regulations and promoting policies that support long-term energy security for the United States.