America stands at an energy crossroads. The United States is the world’s top oil producer, a natural gas juggernaut, and a nuclear pioneer—yet its potential remains shackled by bureaucratic inertia and ideological gridlock. To conservatives, the solution is clear: unshackle markets, slash red tape, and let innovation roar. But this isn’t just about ideology—it’s about pragmatism, security, and a future where American energy powers not just our homes, but our global leadership. Unleashing this potential demands a fearless recalibration of policy, a fusion of tradition and technology, and a candid reckoning with trade-offs. Here’s how we do it—and why it’s the most compelling path forward.
The Case for American Muscle
Energy is America’s economic spine. In 2024, oil and gas alone generated $200 billion in exports, employed 10 million, and fueled 63% of our consumption. The Permian Basin pumps 6 million barrels daily; federal lands hold untapped billions more. Yet, leasing delays—some stretching 120 days—stifle growth. A conservative fix is simple: shrink permitting to 15 days, open 80% of Bureau of Land Management acreage, and let drillers drill. By 2035, we could hit 20 million barrels daily, dwarfing OPEC’s peak and slashing gas to $1.50 a gallon. Liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports, already at 12 billion cubic feet daily, could double with new Gulf terminals, cementing Europe’s reliance on us—not Putin.
Read more in RealClearEnergy here.
The views and opinions expressed are those of the author’s and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of C3.
