Former Rep. Steve LaTourette (R-OH) writes an op-ed for The Hill explaining why we must end the partisan gridlock on energy.
“Eventually, our elected officials are forced to deal with issues, no matter how thorny or complicated they may be.
Energy is one of those issues that cannot and should not be avoided. Few issues affect our world and our daily lives more; energy policy is inextricably linked with jobs, the economy and the environment.
There is common ground that exists — energy doesn’t have to be a take-it-or-leave-it proposition. You shouldn’t have to choose between being on Team Al Gore or Team Drill, Baby, Drill. There is a wide range of responsible energy solutions, common-sense solutions, that don’t require landing in either of these extreme positions. There is wide support in both parties and among voters of all ideological stripes for an all-of-the-above approach to energy that includes traditional domestic sources as well as renewable energy sources. A true all-of-the-above approach to responsible energy solutions should treat all energy sources, including renewables, the same.
Polling shows that such an approach would resonate with the American electorate; indeed, 75 percent of voters agree that we should remove unnecessary barriers to domestic energy production and implement an all-of-the-above approach that includes traditional resources, like oil and natural gas, as well as renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar power.”