Senator John Kennedy (R-LA) has taken a defiant stance against President Biden’s energy policies, particularly the pause on new and pending permits for liquefied natural gas (LNG) export terminals, some of which are located in his home state of Louisiana. In a Wall Street Journal op-ed, Kennedy expressed skepticism about the administration’s claims of updating the evaluation process and instead asserted that Biden aims to undermine America’s fossil-fuel industry without taking direct responsibility. By withholding permits, the president can allegedly deter investors, drain projects of capital, and distance himself while claiming to maintain clean hands if terminals close.
Kennedy emphasized the absence of “environmental justification” for sacrificing energy jobs, pointing out that natural gas has played a crucial role in reducing carbon emissions in the United States. Over the period from 2005 to 2019, natural gas contributed to a 32% reduction in American carbon emissions while generating 1.4 million manufacturing jobs and lowering heating costs for families. The senator criticized the Biden administration for overlooking the positive aspects of natural gas and argued that it is a key component in various environmental initiatives, such as supporting electric cars, wind turbines, and solar panels.
Highlighting the economic and security implications of the administration’s decisions, Kennedy pledged to obstruct State and Energy department nominees as a form of resistance against what he sees as an assault on American energy. He drew a parallel to the Terminator, vowing to persistently block nominees and draw attention to what he perceives as intentional job loss and threats to national security in an effort to appease climate extremists. While making this commitment, Kennedy indicated that there might be exceptions for nominees he deems “crucial.” The senator’s stance aligns with conservative values, emphasizing the importance of energy independence and economic prosperity.