Staff Reports
In a bold move that could turn heads in both Democratic and Republican circles, Houston Mayor John Whitmire took a hammer to President Biden and California Governor Gavin Newsom during the Texas Oil & Gas Association Energy Summit. While it’s no surprise that a Democrat might feel the heat from what could only be described as disaster-level energy policies from the left, Whitney made it clear that Texas is not about to roll over and accept the incompetence swirling out of Washington and Sacramento.
Whitmire, who has spent the better part of four decades in politics learning the ropes, made a strong case for Houston’s pivotal role as the oil and natural gas capital of not just Texas, but the entire United States. His remarks were underpinned by a recent announcement from Chevron, a company built in the land of palm trees and high taxes, stating its intent to relocate its corporate headquarters to the Lone Star State. Apparently, even oil companies are deciding they’ve had enough of what Newsom calls “progressive governance”—and it’s fair to say the energy giant won’t miss California’s ever-growing list of taxes and regulations.
Whitmire calls out Biden, Newsom over energy policies #Oilandgas #Naturalgas #Oilproductionhttps://t.co/uwBiFJy2FD
— Daniela Collins (@romans11732) September 24, 2024
In what could easily be characterized as a self-given pep talk, Whitmire emphasized the need for more companies to make the jump to Texas, positioning Houston as the ultimate destination for refineries and energy jobs. Unlike the hopelessly lost approach of Biden, who seems to view energy independence as some kind of optional pastime, Whitmire signaled that Houston is ready, willing, and able to create jobs and improve quality of life through sensible energy policies.
He did not shy away from firing shots at the Biden administration’s recent suspension of developments related to liquid natural gas (LNG), claiming that this only hurts the U.S. and its allies. It’s hard to argue that abandoning a resource while countries across the pond are clamoring for it is anything but a monumental blunder. Biden’s decision is not merely misguided; it’s as if he’s aiming to hand Europe back to Russia on a silver platter while touting his ‘green’ agenda from the comfort of a D.C. hotel room.
Texas, in contrast, continues to lay the groundwork for resilience and prosperity with its $5 billion Texas Energy Fund designed to bolster natural gas development. Governor Abbott and Lt. Governor Patrick clearly identified another $10 billion opportunity sitting in the state’s lap, emphasizing the need to expand energy resources to meet rising demands. While Biden hobbles along, Texas is charging full steam ahead, showing the world what effective energy policy looks like.
With Whitmire’s bipartisan approach, it seems he is willing to take down party lines to ensure progress—an idea, however rare, that might just garner respect from conservatives and moderate Democrats alike. Cooperation seems to be the name of the game in Houston, where, as Whitmire noted, friendly relationships with Austin are crucial for ensuring growth and opportunity. Imagine that: leaders working together towards common goals rather than tearing each other apart on social media or in the office. Who knew it was possible?
As Houston solidifies its status as a booming economic engine, fueled by energy independence and a welcoming business climate, the stark contrast between Texas and the federal administration becomes more evident. With record-breaking oil and natural gas production, Texas stands poised to lead not only in the U.S. but globally, proving that states with a solid grasp of industry and a friendly approach to business will always win the energy game.
