Staff Reports
The Biden Administration is receiving criticism from both sides of the aisle for its decision to cancel drilling permits in Alaska’s National Petroleum Reserve (NPR). The move, which aims to curb fossil fuel drilling and combat climate change, has drawn outrage from Republicans and Democrats alike.
As part of their efforts, the Department of the Interior (DOI) proposed regulations to protect 13 million acres of land in the NPR. Additionally, President Biden ordered the withdrawal of 2.8 million acres of land in the Beaufort Sea from oil and gas leasing. The administration also canceled seven existing leases issued to the Alaska Industrial Development and Export Authority and authorized the cancellation of seven more leases issued in 2021.
The Biden Administration’s decision has sparked a heated response from lawmakers. Democrat Senator Joe Manchin questioned why the United States would become more dependent on foreign oil imports and eliminate American jobs. Republican Senator John Barrasso criticized Biden for ignoring the law and making the country more reliant on foreign oil. Senator Jim Risch accused Biden of stifling domestic energy production and pushing a radical green agenda.
Even Alaska’s congressional delegation, consisting of both Democrats and Republicans, condemned the move. They expressed frustration with the administration’s decision and emphasized the importance of Alaska’s resources for the country and its allies. The cancellation of leases and restrictions on drilling are seen as detrimental to Alaska’s economy and could lead to job losses in the region.
The Biden administration will prohibit drilling in 13 million acres of pristine wilderness in the National Petroleum Reserve in Alaska and cancel all drilling leases in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, it announced on Wednesday. https://t.co/fDbX4HGaRh pic.twitter.com/znFSGnyFDK
— The New York Times (@nytimes) September 6, 2023
The economic implications of these actions are also concerning. Gasoline prices have significantly increased since Biden took office, going from an average of $2.40 per gallon to $3.80 per gallon. The rising prices are expected to continue, putting a strain on Americans’ wallets. Furthermore, the United States’ aging electrical grid poses a potential crisis if not properly maintained. The country relies heavily on electricity, and any disruptions could lead to mass chaos and conflict.
The Biden Administration’s decision to halt drilling permits in Alaska is seen as reckless and based on flawed reasoning. Critics argue that it will cost jobs, increase energy prices, and have a negative impact on the overall economy. The long-term consequences of these actions could be severe and detrimental to the country’s energy independence and economic stability.
