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2 episodes with senate energy
2 episodes with senate energy
2 episodes with senate energy
2 episodes with senate energy
The Trump administration is considering creating a sovereign risk insurance program for energy projects, along with a sovereign wealth fund. POLITICO's Ben Lefebvre breaks down the administration's thinking on the topics, how it compares to other policies around the world, and the potential challenges ahead. Plus, the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee advanced the nominations of two nominees for the Energy Department, as well as bipartisan legislation that aims to speed the development of minerals resources. Ben Lefebvre is an energy reporter for POLITICO. Nirmal Mulaikal is the co-host and producer of POLITICO Energy. Alex Keeney is a senior audio producer at POLITICO. Gloria Gonzalez is the deputy energy editor for POLITICO. Matt Daily is the energy editor for POLITICO. For more news on energy and the environment, subscribe to Power Switch, our free evening newsletter: https://www.politico.com/power-switch And for even deeper coverage and analysis, read our Morning Energy newsletter by subscribing to POLITICO Pro: https://subscriber.politicopro.com/newsletter-archive/morning-energy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The Assembly and State Senate released their respective one-house budget proposals officially kicking off budget negotiations. We dive into lawmakers' approach to affordability this year - centered around housing, tax credits and wages. State Sen. Kevin Parker (D - Chair, Senate Energy and Telecommunications Committee) joins us to discuss the push to help New Yorkers against high utility rates. Explore More: nynow.org
President Donald Trump is once again ordering the United States to withdraw from the historic Paris climate agreement — testing the limits of international climate diplomacy and inviting questions from around the world. POLITICO's Zack Colman breaks down what Trump's exit from the climate deal really means. Plus, the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee will vote on the nominations of Chris Wright to be Energy secretary and Doug Burgum to be Interior secretary on Thursday. Zack Colman covers climate change for POLITICO. Nirmal Mulaikal is a POLITICO audio host-producer. Annie Rees is the managing producer for audio at POLITICO. Gloria Gonzalez is the deputy energy editor for POLITICO. Matt Daily is the energy editor for POLITICO. For more news on energy and the environment, subscribe to Power Switch, our free evening newsletter: https://www.politico.com/power-switch And for even deeper coverage and analysis, read our Morning Energy newsletter by subscribing to POLITICO Pro: https://subscriber.politicopro.com/newsletter-archive/morning-energy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The Rich Zeoli Show- Hour 3: 5:05pm- On Thursday, Interior Secretary nominee Doug Burgum testified before the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee where he described how the incoming Trump Administration will assure American energy dominance. Meanwhile, Lee Zeldin—nominated to serve as Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) administrator—told the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee that China is an adversary and isn't necessarily the best nation to partner with regarding “clean energy.” 5:15pm- During his confirmation hearing before the Senate Finance Committee, Treasury Secretary nominee Scott Bessent emphasized that the United States may be in an energy race with China—but it's completely false to suggest China prioritizes clean energy. During one notable exchange, Bessent used statistics to destroy Sen. Michael Bennet's claim that the 2017 Trump Administration tax cuts only benefited the wealthy. 5:30pm- While speaking with Politico, Sen. John Curtis (R-UT) said Director of National Intelligence nominee Tulsi Gabbard has not done enough to win his vote. The Wall Street Journal reports that Sen. James Lankford (R-OK) is also skeptical of Gabbard. However, Democrat Jon Ossoff, of Georgia, is open to voting “yes.”
The Rich Zeoli Show- Full Episode (01/16/2025): 3:05pm- On Wednesday night, President Joe Biden delivered a farewell address from the Oval Office where he warned Americans of a developing “oligarchy” within big tech—claiming that Meta and X are allowing for the dissemination of disinformation by not actively censoring speech. Biden cited President Dwight Eisenhower's famous warning about the dangers of the military-industrial complex and explained that big tech presented a similar, modern-day challenge to Americans. 3:15- While appearing on Joe Rogan's podcast, Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg defended his decision to end censorship on Facebook, citing previous editorial errors and a desire to restore free speech online. Zuckerberg revealed that the Biden Administration pressured his platforms to censor certain posts regarding COVID-19 vaccine side effects. While Rich is glad Zuckerberg and Meta are backing away from censorship, he refuses to believe the decision was made for anything other than political reasons. 3:20pm- Last week, the United States Supreme Court heard oral argument in TikTok, Inc. v. Garland—which will determine whether or not the federal government can ban an application owned by a foreign country designated as a foreign adversary. The potential ban could occur as soon as Sunday, January 19th. According to reports, Donald Trump—who will be sworn in on the 20th—is looking to save the app, potentially via an executive order or a partial sale of the company. Trump, according to The Washington Post, is also considering adopting “Project Texas” which would provide the U.S. government with a “kill switch” for TikTok should the app violate norms. 3:30pm- What president would you want to have a beer with? PLUS, have you ever heard audio of Lyndon Baines Johnson ordering a pair of slacks? 3:40pm- Speaking with The Washington Post, First Lady Jill Biden revealed that she was disappointed in Nancy Pelosi for her actions that led to Joe Biden being replaced as the Democrat Party's presidential nominee. She explained, “we were friends for 50-years.” 4:05pm- Jack Carr—#1 New York Times Best Selling Author of “The Terminal List”—joins The Rich Zeoli Show to discuss Secretary of Defense nominee Pete Hegseth's Senate confirmation hearing. PLUS, Carr talks about his soon-to-be-released book: “Cry Havok.” 4:30pm- Justin Goodman—Senior Vice President of Advocacy and Public Policy for the White Coat Waste Project—joins The Rich Zeoli Show to discuss a new article his organization co-authored with Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis, “Here's how Trump 2.0 can cut $20 billion in spending, wipe out Fauci's leftover bloat—and save animals.” Is the government using taxpayer dollars to fund experiments involving monkeys doing drugs and gambling??? You can read the article here: https://nypost.com/2025/01/16/us-news/how-donald-trump-can-cut-20-billion-in-spending-wipe-out-anthony-faucis-leftover-bloat-and-save-animals/ 5:05pm- On Thursday, Interior Secretary nominee Doug Burgum testified before the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee where he described how the incoming Trump Administration will assure American energy dominance. Meanwhile, Lee Zeldin—nominated to serve as Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) administrator—told the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee that China is an adversary and isn't necessarily the best nation to partner with regarding “clean energy.” 5:15pm- During his confirmation hearing before the Senate Finance Committee, Treasury Secretary nominee Scott Bessent emphasized that the United States may be in an energy race with China—but it's completely false to suggest China prioritizes clean energy. During one notable exchange, Bessent used statistics to destroy Sen. Michael Bennet's claim that the 2017 Trump Administration tax cuts only benefited the wealthy. 5:30pm- While speaking with Politico, Sen. John Curtis (R-UT) said Director of National Intelligence nominee Tulsi Gabbard has ...
Watch The X22 Report On Video No videos found Click On Picture To See Larger PictureTrump responds to Biden gas stove green new scam move, Trump is going to reverse it all. Gold prices are on the move. When the [CB] brings down the economy Trump can use International Emergency Economic Powers Act to implement his policies. The [DS] is now prepping the narrative for the [FF]. Two events, and the murder of the CEO home grown extremism. Drones in the sky we are being attacked. Trump is playing 4D Chess with the [DS]. Trump is pushing the EU, the Royal families to react to hime wanting to purchase Canada and Greenland. A beautiful new world lies ahead. (function(w,d,s,i){w.ldAdInit=w.ldAdInit||[];w.ldAdInit.push({slot:13499335648425062,size:[0, 0],id:"ld-7164-1323"});if(!d.getElementById(i)){var j=d.createElement(s),p=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];j.async=true;j.src="//cdn2.customads.co/_js/ajs.js";j.id=i;p.parentNode.insertBefore(j,p);}})(window,document,"script","ld-ajs"); Economy Trump Reportedly Mulls Executive Order Protecting Gas Stoves From Radical Left's Green Crusade Nearly two weeks after the Biden administration quietly finalized new climate rules targeting natural gas-powered water heaters—following years of far-left politicians and shady "green" nonprofits waging war against NatGas stoves under the guise of improving "indoor air quality"—President-elect Donald Trump has reportedly had enough of these games. He plans to issue an executive order to protect NatGas-powered appliances. Reuters Source: zerohedge.com https://twitter.com/KobeissiLetter/status/1877044177172611542 Sue, Baby, Sue: Trump Plan To "Un-Ban" The Biden Drilling Order Could Prove Difficult After a presidential campaign where both President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris pushed back on claims that they were trying to shut down much of the fossil fuel industry, Biden waited until the final days of his administration to ban oil and gas drilling over 670 million acres of America's coastline. President-elect Donald Trump responded that “It's ridiculous.I'll un-ban it immediately. I have the right to un-ban it immediately.” It will likely be more difficult than a simple “un-ban” order. Environmental groups will likely push a “sue, baby, sue” campaign to counter Trump's “drill, baby, drill.” In his statement, Biden justified the move to counter the “climate crisis.” So, there are grounds to assert this authority of reversal, but it will take years in court. The alternative and preferred route would be Congress. This is an issue that should ultimately rest with Congress. This ambiguous law is unfortunately common in poorly crafted provisions giving presidents sweeping authority. Sen. Mike Lee (R., Utah), chair of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, has already pledged to “push back using every tool at our disposal.” Source: zerohedge.com https://twitter.com/pjcolbeck/status/1877054493025853510 other modern electronics with military application. PLUS: Its geography is strategically important from a military perspective. Does this help convey why President Trump is interested in adding Greenland to the United States? https://twitter.com/BehizyTweets/status/1877027031742874079 TAKE A LISTEN If Donald Trump were President and faced a scenario where the stock market declines by 10,000 points and the country is in a deep recession, he could theoretically use the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) to declare a national emergency. Here's how this would work: Criteria for Using IEEPA: The President must declare a national emergency based on an "unusual and extraordinary threat" to the national security, foreign policy, or economy of the United States that has its source in whole or substantial part outside the United States.
In Episode 478 of District of Conservation, Gabriella preview the 119th Congress's upcoming work on energy and conservation issues, the bald eagle becoming America's official bird, and bracing for Winter Storm Blair. Tune in to learn more! SHOW NOTES Biden Makes Bald Eagle America's National Bird Guthrie Elected as Chair of the House Energy & Commerce Committee Q&A: Sen. Shelley Moore Capito, incoming EPW chair Vice Chair LaMalfa Elected as Western Caucus Chairman Mike Lee to lead Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee next year Republicans gear up for lightning-speed reconciliation bill
The recent U.S. election has raised a lot of questions about future directions for grid-related policies and programs. We reached out to people with a good view on the new administration for their perspectives. In this first special episode, Bryce chats with Kellie Donnelly, Executive Vice President & General Counsel of Lot Sixteen and a long time lead staff person for the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee and other Hill positions. They cover how an incoming Trump administration might shift energy policy, impact key federal agencies, and change national energy priorities. Bryce and Kellie also discuss how the Republican Congress may bring back the reconciliation process in a package bill, implications of the Congressional Review Act, and how grid innovation may be impacted under the returning administration.
Today we had the pleasure of hosting the team from Cornerstone Government Affairs for an engaging discussion on energy policy and the upcoming US Presidential Election with Jack Belcher, Principal, John Sandell, Principal, and Sarah Venuto, Principal and Counsel. Cornerstone is an independent bipartisan consulting firm specializing in federal and state government relations, public affairs, political and grant consulting, and business advisory services. Jack, John and Sarah are seasoned experts in navigating the complexities of Washington DC. Jack has over 30 years of experience in energy and energy policy and previously held roles as Manager of Regulatory Affairs and Policy at Shell and Staff Director for the US House Subcommittee on Energy and Mineral Resources. John is an expert in tax policy and formerly served the members of the US House Committee on Ways and Means. Sarah previously served as Director of the Office of External Affairs at the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Senior Advisor and Chief Counsel to Senator Joe Manchin, and Democratic Staff Director for the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee. We were thrilled to connect with the Cornerstone team to explore this timely and important topic. Our conversation centered on a report Cornerstone published entitled “A Guide to Forecasting Energy Policy In The Next White House: Trump V. Harris” (linked here). Jack first provides background on Cornerstone's history and growth into the largest independent government relations firm in DC. We touch on the implications of the Chevron Deference case on regulatory agencies, its significance for future energy policy and regulation, and how it will impact Congress and the need for additional technical expertise there. We cover the complexities of Presidential Administration changes and challenges of transitioning political appointments, the future of the Inflation Reduction Act under different administrations, and efforts to streamline permitting and infrastructure development. Jack, John and Sarah offer their insights on how a Trump or Harris administration might approach energy policy and rising energy prices for businesses and consumers. We discuss areas of bipartisan support including nuclear energy, tariffs, alternative fuels, and competition with China, how the next administration might balance state-level initiatives with national policy, the upcoming 2025 Tax Debate led by the Ways and Means Committee, and much more. It was an insightful discussion and we want to thank Jack, John and Sarah for sharing their perspectives and time with us on a busy day in DC. Mike Bradley opened the conversation by highlighting that broader equity markets were down Tuesday driven by JPMorgan Chase's cautious comments. In the bond market, the 10-year U.S. bond yield traded at ~3.65, down 20-30bps in recent weeks. The U.S. 2yr/10yr yield bond spread flipped back to positive after two years of inversion, this type of flip after a lengthy period of backwardation tends to precede recessions. He noted the importance of this week's economic reports with August CPI & PPI and Initial Jobless Claims reporting over the next couple of days. On crude oil, he also shared a chart of the WTI crude oil curve and noted that the curve structure had flattened out through 2035, primarily due to concerns over global/China oil demand after being in steep backwardation over the prior 3mo, 6mo & 12mo periods. He concluded by mentioning that crude oil prices were technically oversold, with traders remaining bearish but waiting for significant changes in global oil demand to unwind net short bets. Jeff Tillery built on Mike's comments and noted the demand concerns and OPEC's spare capacity reducing upside optionality for long-term investors. Brett Rampal highlighted a significant
Former U.S. Sen. Mary Landrieu (D-La.), who is now a senior policy advisor for the law firm Van Ness Feldman and co-chair of the Natural Allies Leadership Council, is keen on natural gas and believes it is part of the solution to reaching both domestic and global climate goals. “Natural gas in America is not the enemy,” Landrieu said as a guest on The POWER Podcast. “The majority of the emissions reductions of the United States in the last 10 years are directly attributed to more natural gas being used and less coal,” she said. Yet, that doesn't mean Landrieu is opposed to renewable energy. She believes in an “all-of-the-above” strategy. “As natural gas has replaced coal as the number one producer of electricity in this country, our emissions have been reduced substantially, that is, in addition and in collaboration with—in partnership with—the increase in wind [and] the increase in solar,” said Landrieu. There are many reasons to support natural gas, according to Landrieu. For one, America has a lot of it. “We have over a hundred-year supply,” she claimed. “Number two: we have an amazing pipeline infrastructure that can move gas from where we find it to the people that need it,” she added. “But also, what's so important is natural gas, because it's relatively inexpensive, we can keep the cost of electricity lower. So, it's available, it's plentiful, it's affordable, and when connected with wind and solar, we can really build a modern and low-emissions electric grid for the country.” Landrieu has a sound basis for her views, having served three terms in the U.S. Senate (1997–2015) where she chaired the prominent Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee and she advocated for her home state of Louisiana, which is America's fourth-largest energy-producing state. Still, Landrieu pushes back when people suggest she only promotes natural gas because Louisiana produces it. “No, I promote natural gas because we produce it, but we also use a lot of it. So, my goal is to keep it plentiful [and] keep the price low and stable,” she said. Another form of energy that Landrieu supports is nuclear power. “Although our coalition doesn't promote nuclear, we recognize the power of nuclear power. We want to see more nuclear power in this country,” she said. “Nuclear provides about 18% of our electricity—it was about 20—if we could get that up to 25 or even 30%, it would really help. Natural gas can provide a lot, more wind, more solar, and as batteries come along, that's going to be, I think, the combination we're looking for.” The Natural Allies Leadership Council calls itself “a coalition of interested stakeholders that recognize the vital role natural gas and its infrastructure must play in the energy mix.” The group says natural gas partnered with renewable energy “can accelerate our path to a clean energy future—ensuring affordability and reliability while reducing carbon emissions domestically and internationally.” Landrieu co-chairs the group with Kendrick Meek (D-Fla.), who served southern Florida in Congress from 2002 to 2010; Michael Nutter, who served as Philadelphia's 98th Mayor from 2008 to 2016; and Tim Ryan (D-Ohio), who served 10 terms in Congress from 2003 to 2023. “We're talking to Democrats—we're happy always to talk with Republicans as well—but we're talking to Democratic leaders and saying, ‘If you want prices low, if you want your people employed, if you want jobs in your community, natural gas is for you.' And we're happy to partner with renewables, nuclear, batteries, and let's build a future together,” said Landrieu.
Today we had the honor of hosting former Senator Mary Landrieu of Louisiana. Senator Landrieu served for three terms from 1997 to 2015 and chaired the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, the Small Business and Entrepreneurship Committee and the Homeland Security Appropriations Committee. She also served on the Armed Forces Committee. During her time in Washington, Senator Landrieu gained a reputation for working across the aisle on important energy and other national priorities. Currently, Senator Landrieu is Co-Chair of Natural Allies, a coalition of stakeholders that recognize the vital role natural gas plays in the energy mix to meet carbon reduction goals. We were thrilled to visit with Senator Landrieu. In our conversation we discuss how Louisiana's industrial base relies heavily on energy production and consumption, the historical bipartisanship in the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, how geography influences people's understanding and views on energy issues, the role of natural gas in reducing emissions, and why nuclear energy has bipartisan support. Senator Landrieu shares background on her role at Natural Allies and the group's focus on supporting US natural gas, the need to educate the public on the economic benefit of open markets particularly for US exports, finding ways to help countries like China and India reduce their reliance on coal, why the Senator disagreed with the Biden Administration's LNG permitting pause, and broadly the need for pragmatic, bipartisan energy and climate solutions. We explore SPR usage and levels, the status of permitting reform with significant delays expected until after the Presidential Election, finding practical solutions to reduce emissions and grow the economy through building infrastructure faster, and much more. It was a fantastic conversation and we are very grateful to Senator Landrieu for sharing her time and valuable insights with us all. She calls it like she sees it and is a very refreshing centrist voice. Mike Bradley kicked us off by highlighting that 10-year bond yields continued their recent plunge after last week's cooler than expected CPI report and currently trade at ~4.15%. WTI price is trading at ~$81/bbl and has been stuck in a tight trading range ($80-$83/bbl) for the last several weeks. Crude oil traders are focused on global demand and are growing concerned with slowing global economic growth, especially China. U.S. natural gas continued its recent plunge and trades at ~$2.15/Mcf, despite Hurricane Beryl temporarily curtailing 1.7-1.8bcfd from Freeport LNG. He noted that U.S. natural gas production has rebounded back above 101bcfd and remains problematic given natural gas storage levels that are ~18% above normal. He discussed that the main word to describe broader equity market trading action this last week is “rotation.” Big 6 (AI & Tech equities) and broader equity indices like the S&P 500 & Nasdaq are significantly underperforming smaller-cap indices like the Russell 2000, which are perceived to be bigger beneficiaries of lower future inflation/interest rates. He ended by noting that Q2 Energy sector reporting begins this week with both pipelines (KMI) and oil services (LBRT, HAL & SLB) reporting. Arjun Murti shared his thoughts on the need for a diverse energy portfolio to meet global demands, the roles of the US and Canada as key players in both traditional and new energy markets, the unnecessary partisan divide over energy sources, and the importance of leveraging the US's leadership in technology and capital markets to lead in energy innovation. We hope you enjoy the discussion with Senator Landrieu as much as we did. Thanks to you all for your friendship and support!
With the Biden Administration finalizing new mileage standards, a recent Senate Energy panel hearing served as a flashpoint for the EV versus combustion engine debate.
Rich Glick initiated the proceedings that led to Order 1920 as Chair of FERC, he returns to Public Power Underground with experts Prof. Jacob Mays and Pamela Quinlan to reflect on its adoption--------------------Paul Dockery and Crystal Ball bring their curiosity to an in-depth discussion of transmission planning, transmission investment, and transmission policy with Rich Glick, Pamela Quinlan, and Prof. Jacob Mays.You can find the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Share with friends that are energy enthusiasts, like us!08:48 - Rich, What were you hoping for?FERC 2022 - 2026 Strategic PlanJoint Federal-State Task Force on Electric Transmission32:33 - Pamela, Does this do what you wanted?Building for the Future Through Electric Regional Transmission Planning and Cost AllocationHigh-Level Summary of FERC Order No. 1920 on Transmission Planning and Cost Allocation published by Troutman Pepper (h/t Adrienne Thompson)“Plan for the future with the best available information, select the best plan for consumers and allocate costs according to benefits" - Rob Gramlich on Volts1:05:15 - Jacob, What is missing?Shu, H. and Mays, J., 2024. Transmission Benefits and Cost Allocation under Ambiguity. arXiv preprint arXiv:2403.14803.1:15:48 - Rich Glick's Energy System Analogy: The energy transition is like the 1973 Mets.1:17:55 - Jacob Mays's Energy System Analogy: The 2005 Royals, never say it can't get worse.1:19:09 - Pamela Quinlan's Energy System Analogy: The energy transition is like Game of Thrones.BONUS: Ke Xin (Sherry) Zuo, a PhD candidate at Cornell University in the Mays Group, provided her reflections onTaylor Swift's newest album, The Tortured Poets Department, and its application to the Power System. My (Paul's) favorite: the brilliant insight that “I Can Do It With a Broken Heart” is actually about how the power grid has to be resilient during forced outages and extreme weather events. About the guests:Rich Glick is a Principal with GQ New Energy Strategies – a consulting firm he co-founded with Pamela Quinlan. Rich is a former Chair of Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC). As Chair, Rich initiated several reforms to more efficiently and cost effectively accommodate the evolution of the electric grid. Before being appointed to FERC, Rich was General Counsel for the Democrats on the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee. He has worked for Iberdrola, PPM Energy and PacifiCorp and is also known in the West for his current work with the Committee on Regional Electric Power Cooperation (CREPC) Western States Transmission Initiative (WSTI) and CREPC Transmission Collaborative (TC). Rich's prior appearance on Public Power Underground can be found below.Pamela Quinlan co-founded GQ New Energy Strategies with Rich. She is an expert in energy market regulation and policy. She started at FERC as a Senior Energy Industry Analyst in the Office of Energy Market Regulation. In 2017 Quinlan went to work in then-commissioner Glick's office as a Technical Advisor and was appointed Chief of Staff in January 2021. As Chief of Staff, she was responsible for developing and implementing the strategy behind the Commission's policy initiatives. Before leaving FERC in 2023, Quinlan advised Chair Willie Phillips on Energy Markets and Resource Adequacy. She has also worked for Consolidated Edison (ConEd) and Standard and Poor's.Prof. Jacob Mays is an Assistant Professor in the School of Civil and Environmental Engineering at Cornell University where his research focuses on the design and analysis of electricity markets. Jacob holds an AB in chemistry and physics from Harvard University, a MEng in energy systems from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, and a PhD in industrial engineering and management sciences from Northwestern University. His seminal work (Paul is editorializing by describing it as seminal) on the sequential pricing of electricity was the subject of a stand-alone episode on Season 5 of Public Power Underground, and his collaborations with Jesse Jenkins, Farhad Billimoria, and Rahmat Poudineh have informed our listeners perspectives on electric markets under deep decarbonization. Jacob's prior appearances on Public Power Underground can be found below.Public Power Underground, for electric utility enthusiasts! Public Power Underground, it's work to watch!
All three of President Joe Biden's nominees for the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission are officially advancing to the full Senate after the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee approved their nominations. POLITICO's Catherine Morehouse breaks down the nominees' confirmation path moving forward and why some industry observers remain at the edge of their seats. Plus, the Senate confirmed Nuclear Regulatory Commission Chair Christopher Hanson to a second term. For more news on energy and the environment, subscribe to Power Switch, our free evening newsletter: https://www.politico.com/power-switch And for even deeper coverage and analysis, read our Morning Energy newsletter by subscribing to POLITICO Pro: https://subscriber.politicopro.com/newsletter-archive/morning-energy Catherine Morehouse is an energy reporter for POLITICO. Josh Siegel is an energy reporter for POLITICO. Nirmal Mulaikal is a POLITICO audio host-producer. Annie Rees is a senior audio producer-host at POLITICO. Gloria Gonzalez is the deputy energy editor for POLITICO. Matt Daily is the energy editor for POLITICO.
On this episode of the podcast, Host Amanda Head dives into the intricate landscape of America's electricity demands and the critical need for additional power plant infrastructure to meet the ever-increasing growth. Amanda's distinguished guest on this episode is Mark P. Mills, one of our nation's premiere energy experts. Mr. Mills currently serves as the Executive Director of the National Center for Energy Analytics and as a Senior Fellow at the Texas Public Policy Foundation and discusses the testimony he gave before the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee on May 21, 2024.Right now, there is a soaring demand for electricity to fuel data centers, artificial intelligence (AI), manufacturing, electric vehicles (EV) and much more, but powering these growth areas to sustain economic prosperity is going to take a bipartisan effort in Congress and tons of consultation with outside industry leaders and energy experts. Nevertheless, constant political gridlock pose a major challenge to effectively balance electricity growth as well as current and future energy needs. However, throughout the conversation Mills inferred there seemed to be a renewed level of optimism by elected Republicans and Democrats, especially on the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, to work on the future of energy innovation and navigate our nation's energy output issues together. Additionally, Head questioned Mills as to why automakers are struggling with electric vehicle profitability despite the Biden Administration's constant push, which now includes subsidies. Mills delves into the complexities of EV sales, market share, and the accelerating growth rate juxtaposed against overall vehicle sales. Furthermore, the discussion shifts to the environmental impacts of renewable energy sources, with differing perspectives on the definition of ‘clean' energy and the geopolitical dependencies of solar panels and electric vehicles. Head and Mills dive into a greater conversation about the future of energy technology, including nuclear power and the role of government regulation that often delay major progress in all industries, especially energy.You can follow Amanda Head on social media by searching for her handle, @AmandaHead. This podcast is also exclusively on X (formerly Twitter) which you can find by searching, @FurthermorePod.If you liked what you heard from Mark Mills you can follow him on X by searching, @MarkPMills. Finally, if you are new to this podcast and want to dive into all the latest conversations you can do so by clicking here: www.justthenews.com/podcasts/furthermore-amanda-head.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
The Biden administration is set to impose first-ever federal limits that will require thousands of public water systems to capture and dispose of toxic contaminants in drinking water that have been linked to infertility and cancer. POLITICO's Jordan Wolman breaks down the details of the standards and how utilities will face significant challenges in order to meet them. Plus, Senate Energy and Natural Resources Chair Joe Manchin is pledging to hold a hearing about the Biden administration's recently announced LNG moratorium. For more news on energy and the environment, subscribe to Power Switch, our free evening newsletter: https://www.politico.com/power-switch And for even deeper coverage and analysis, read our Morning Energy newsletter by subscribing to POLITICO Pro: https://subscriber.politicopro.com/newsletter-archive/morning-energy Josh Siegel is an energy reporter for POLITICO. Jordan Wolman is a sustainability reporter for POLITICO. Nirmal Mulaikal is a POLITICO audio host-producer. Annie Rees is a senior audio producer-host at POLITICO. Gloria Gonzalez is the deputy energy editor for POLITICO. Matt Daily is the energy editor for POLITICO.
#WENPodcast AlertJoin us for a conversation with @Mary Landrieu (D-LA), who served three terms in the U.S. Senate (1997-2015), where she chaired the prominent Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee. Senator Landrieu has continued to serve the energy industry throughout her career, which was built on bipartisanship and solving problems. This episode explores Senator Landrieu's call to action as we journey through her career and get her unique perspective on the collaboration required to overcome the climate crisis, the energy transition, and other universal challenges of today. #CallToAction #Podcast #EarCandy #ConnectedLocally #NetworkedGlobally #OneWenForAll #DiversityEquityInclusion #WENCommunity #WomenInEnergy #WENWomen #WENMen #WomenLeaders #OilAndGas #RenewableEnergy #PowerAndUtilities #NuclearEnergyThe views and opinions expressed in this podcast are solely our own and do not express or imply the views or opinions of our employers or any of its officers, directors, or employees. Connect with:Mary on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mary-landrieu-14895ab2/Kara on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/krbyrne/Maggie on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maggie-teliska-36538b14/Beth on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bethcreller/Quick links:Learn more about Natural Allies: https://naturalalliesforcleanenergy.org/about-us/Learn more about Women's Energy Network: https://www.womensenergynetwork.org/*Make sure to SUBSCRIBE, RATE, AND REVIEW*New boost
On this week's Capitol Report program, Senate Jobs and Economic Development Chair Bobby Joe Champion, DFL-Minneapolis, describes the historic investments in programs to grow and diversify the state's workforce and strengthen Minnesota's economy. Senator Nick Frentz, Chair of the Senate Energy, Utilities, Environment and Climate Committee, also joins moderator Shannon Loehrke, to highlight the investments in climate resilience. Further, Shannon talks with State Capitol Historian Brian Pease about the design and special features of the State Capitol's Supreme Court Chambers. Plus, ways you can voice your opinion on state issues while visiting the Minnesota State Fair.
Andy Bochman is the Senior Grid Strategist-Defender for Idaho National Laboratory's National and Homeland Security directorate. In this role, Andy provides strategic guidance on topics at the intersection of grid security and climate resilience to INL leadership as well as senior U.S. and international government and industry leaders. Andy is a frequent speaker, writer, and trainer who has testified before the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee on energy infrastructure cybersecurity issues and before FERC on the maturity of smart grid cybersecurity standards. He has had recurring conversations on grid security matters with the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence and the National Security Council. In this OODAcast we discuss Andy's most recent book, Countering Cyber Sabotage: Introducing Consequence-based Cyber-Informed Engineering. This book introduces INL's new approach for defending against top-tier cyber adversaries. Watch as we learn how a hockey player transformed into a cybersecurity champion and author of one of the most important books for engineering for critical infrastructure defense.
The Rich Zeoli Show- Hour 4: According to a report from channel 8 WISH-TV in Indiana, Councilmember Ryan Webb has announced that he will now be identifying as a “lesbian woman of color.” Webb appeared on Fox News with Jesse Kelly to explain his decision to be his “true self” publicly for the first time. In response to the collapse of First Republic Bank, White House Press Secretary Karine Jean Pierre stated the Biden Administration is very confident there will be no more banking failures. Rachel Louise Ensign and Ben Eisen of The Wall Street Journal write, “[r]egulators seized First Republic Bank and struck a deal to sell the bulk of its operations to JPMorgan Chase Co., heading off a chaotic collapse that threatened to reignite the recent banking crisis. JPMorgan said it will assume all of First Republic's $92 billion in deposits—insured and uninsured. It is also buying most of the bank's assets, including about $173 billion in loans and $30 billion in securities.” You can read Ensign and Eisen's full report here: https://www.wsj.com/articles/first-republic-bank-is-seized-sold-to-jpmorgan-in-second-largest-u-s-bank-failure-5cec723 On Tuesday, Interior Secretary Deb Haaland testified at a Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee hearing where she seemingly claimed there were too many jobs in America for “blue collar workers.” Senator Josh Hawley (R-MO) questioned Sec. Haaland about the Biden Administration's “clean energy” agenda and its habit of promoting reliance upon foreign nations for the mining of precious metals and minerals necessary for the development of batteries used in electric cars.
The Rich Zeoli Show- Hour 1: 3:05pm- According to The Wall Street Journal Editorial Board, the Biden Administration is seeking to implement a new rule which “will raise mortgage fees for borrowers with good credit to subsidize higher-risk borrowers. Under the rule, which goes into effect May 1, home buyers with a good credit score over 680 will pay about $40 more each month on a $400,000 loan, and upward depending on the size of the loan. Those who make down payments of 20% on their homes will pay the highest fees. Those payments will then be used to subsidize higher-risk borrowers through lower fees.” You can read the full editorial here: https://www.wsj.com/articles/upside-down-mortgage-policy-212fd736 3:15pm- In response to the expiration of Title 42, President Joe Biden announced that he will dispatch 1,500 active-duty military personnel to the U.S. Southern Border to help prevent illegal border crossings from surging. 3:30pm- Flashback: During an interview with Ezra Klein in 2015, Senator Bernie Sanders (D-VT) said he vehemently opposed “open-borders” and claimed it was a right-wing proposal being supported by the Koch brothers—alleging that Republicans wanted relaxed border security in order to drive down the cost of labor and, subsequently, enhance the profits of large corporations. How has the Democrat party changed its stance on border security so drastically in just 8 years? 3:50pm- Flashback: In 2018, in response to the Trump Administration's decision to send troops to the U.S. Southern Border, then-Senator Kamala Harris claimed the act was “inappropriate” and “political”—so, then why is the Biden Administration doing the very same thing now? Was Harris simply attempting to politicize the issue in 2018? 4:05pm- During the Senate Judiciary Committee's hearing on Supreme Court Ethics Reform, Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX) stated that the hearing's primary intention was to destroy the reputation of ideologically conservative Justices—specifically Justice Clarence Thomas. Sen. Cruz also condemned Senate Democrats for attempting to reduce funding for Justice security even after the attempted assassination of Justice Brett Kavanaugh following the release of a leaked draft of the court's decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization, which ultimately upended Roe v. Wade. 4:15pm- The Wall Street Journal's Editorial Board writes, “Senate Democrats are holding another hearing on ‘Supreme Court Ethics Reform'…and it's important to understand that this isn't about ethics at all. This is another front in the political campaign to delegitimize the Supreme Court, with a goal of tarnishing its rulings and subjecting it to more political control.” You can read the full editorial here: https://www.wsj.com/articles/supreme-court-ethics-reform-hearing-senate-democrats-john-roberts-clarence-thomas-ketanji-brown-jackson-sonia-sotomayor-d0304d65?mod=opinion_lead_pos1 4:30pm- Nicholas Tomaino—Assistant Editorial Features Editor at The Wall Street Journal—joins The Rich Zeoli Show to discuss his latest editorial, “Politico Aims at Gorsuch and Misses.” Politico's Heidi Przybyla alleges that the sale of a property linked to Neil Gorsuch amounts to an ethics problem for the Supreme Court Justice. But as Tomaino points out, Justice Gorsuch disclosed the transaction and “didn't own the property directly. Rather, he held a 20% share in Walden Group LLC, a company he and two partners formed when they bought the house in 2005, before Mr. Gorsuch was a judge. The company listed the property for sale in 2015, asking $2.495 million, and sold it to Mr. Duffy two years later for $1.825 million.” So where is the ethics problem? You can read Tomaino's full editorial here: https://www.wsj.com/articles/politico-aims-at-gorsuch-and-misses-disclosure-colorado-ethics-reform-durbin-87a4fc50?mod=opinion_lead_pos7 4:55pm- During a recent episode of his podcast, Joe Rogan suggested that former Fox News host Tucker Carlson should appear on the online video platform Rumble. 5:05pm- The Drive at 5: President of Thomas Jefferson University Dr. Mark Tykocinski was reprimanded via email by the institution's Chief Executive Officer Joseph Cacchione for “liked” Tweets that questioned the efficacy of gender affirming surgeries for children. Should Dr. Tykocinski have been forced to apologize? Zeoli notes that it appears academia now only accepts dangerous versions of “group think.” 5:20pm- The Mystery Movie Clip: Rich forgets to ask caller twelve for the name of the film… 5:40pm- According to a new poll from the Harvard Kennedy School of Government, young Democrats are abnormally depressed. 6:05pm- According to a report from channel 8 WISH-TV in Indiana, Councilmember Ryan Webb has announced that he will now be identifying as a “lesbian woman of color.” Webb appeared on Fox News with Jesse Kelly to explain his decision to be his “true self” publicly for the first time. 6:30pm- In response to the collapse of First Republic Bank, White House Press Secretary Karine Jean Pierre stated the Biden Administration is very confident there will be no more banking failures. Rachel Louise Ensign and Ben Eisen of The Wall Street Journal write, “[r]egulators seized First Republic Bank and struck a deal to sell the bulk of its operations to JPMorgan Chase Co., heading off a chaotic collapse that threatened to reignite the recent banking crisis. JPMorgan said it will assume all of First Republic's $92 billion in deposits—insured and uninsured. It is also buying most of the bank's assets, including about $173 billion in loans and $30 billion in securities.” You can read Ensign and Eisen's full report here: https://www.wsj.com/articles/first-republic-bank-is-seized-sold-to-jpmorgan-in-second-largest-u-s-bank-failure-5cec723 6:45pm- On Tuesday, Interior Secretary Deb Haaland testified at a Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee hearing where she seemingly claimed there were too many jobs in America for “blue collar workers.” Senator Josh Hawley (R-MO) questioned Sec. Haaland about the Biden Administration's “clean energy” agenda and its habit of promoting reliance upon foreign nations for the mining of precious metals and minerals necessary for the development of batteries used in electric cars.
Senator Brian Dahle who sits on the Senate Energy, Utilities, and Communications Committee call in to discuss energy issues here in California. The United States and NATO were warned by Russia on Thursday they face “catastrophic consequences” if they pursue further involvement in the Ukraine war. Ray shares information from the Solar industry.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Three national climate policy stars kick off Season 3 to recap 2022 successes, predict what's in store for 2023 on the policy front, and outline how the Inflation Reduction Act will benefit states, households, and the climate. U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich of New Mexico, U.S. Representative Kathy Castor of Florida, and Kelly Speakes-Backman of Invenergy share their insights on how we made major progress last year and why we can expect an action-packed year ahead! Guest BiosU.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (New Mexico) has served in the Senate since 2012 and sits on the Senate Energy and Natural Resources, Appropriations, Intelligence, and Joint Economic Committees. Senator Heinrich is focused on creating the jobs of the future and confronting the climate crisis. He served two terms in the U.S. House of Representatives and four years as an Albuquerque City Council, serving as City Council President. He holds a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Missouri. U.S. House of Representatives Kathy Castor (Florida) is Tampa Bay's voice in the U.S. Congress. She was elected in 2006 and represents Florida's 14th Congressional district, and is the first woman to represent Hillsborough and Pinellas counties in Congress. She serves as a member of the Energy and Commerce Committee and the Chair of the former Select Committee on the Climate Crisis. She previously served as a Hillsborough County Commissioner, Chair of the Hillsborough County Environmental Protection Commission, and President of the Florida Association of Women Lawyers. She holds degrees from Emory University and Florida State University College of Law. Kelly Speakes-Backman is the Executive Vice President of Public Affairs with Invenergy, where she leads communications, government affairs, and marketing activities. She previously served as the Acting Assistant Secretary and Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy at the Department of Energy, where she oversaw the planning and execution of the organization's $3.2B portfolio of activities in energy efficiency, renewable energy, and sustainable transportation. She also served as the first CEO of the Energy Storage Association and Commissioner of the Maryland Public Service Commission. Kelly was honored in 2019 by The Cleanie Awards as Woman of the Year.To Dig in Deeper, Check out these Must-Read Resources:White House Fact Sheet on the Inflation Reduction Act & White House Inflation Reduction Act GuidebookHouse Select Committee on the Climate Crisis Archive Website Implementing the Inflation Reduction Act Report Series, Energy InnovationInfrastructure and Investment in Jobs Act Resources for Local Governments Energy Innovation Careers - We're Hiring!
The 117th Congress is coming to a close at the end of this year and, now that most of the midterm races have been called and partisan control of both chambers decided, we have a pretty good idea of what the dynamics will be in the new 118th. Bloomberg Government energy reporter Kellie Lunney joins this episode of Parts Per Billion, our environmental policy podcast, to talk about what to expect on Capitol Hill for the next two years. For one, she says, Sen. Joe Manchin (D-W. Va.) will maintain considerable influence over the chamber as his party's surprising performance in the midterms means he'll continue to lead the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee. Even if Sen. Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.) wins the December runoff against Republican Herschel Walker and becomes the Senate's 51st Democrat, Manchin could still jam things up for his party on any number of issues. Lunney also talks about what could happen during the lame duck session currently under way, and specifically about whether any environmental provisions will hitch a ride on two huge pieces of must-pass legislation. Do you have feedback on this episode of Parts Per Billion? Give us a call and leave a voicemail at 703-341-3690.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
West Virginia Democrat Sen. Joe Manchin, the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee Chair, won't hold a hearing this year on the nomination of Federal Energy Regulatory Commission Chair Richard Glick. Glick can still serve until the end of the year, but Manchin's decision could deal a potentially major blow to FERC, a regulatory body that's crucial to President Joe Biden's climate agenda. POLITICO's Catherine Morehouse breaks down Manchin's decision and its impact on FERC and Biden's green goals. Plus, Trump Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke, whose tenure was plagued with scandals, will represent Montana in Congress next year. Josh Siegel is an energy reporter for POLITICO. Catherine Morehouse is an energy reporter for POLITICO. Nirmal Mulaikal is a POLITICO audio host-producer. Raghu Manavalan is a senior editor for POLITICO audio. Jenny Ament is the executive producer of POLITICO's audio department.
Freeda Cathcart who is the Mothers Out Front Team Coordinator. We talk all about the Manchin Bill which is proposed by Senate Energy and Natural Resources Chair Joe Manchin. It's a bill with an outline of tax, climate, energy, and healthcare measures that speeds up fossil fuel and clean energy projects. In the episode we will focus on its effects on the Mountain Valley Pipeline, MVP. Manchin's bill includes a mandate for agencies to approve the contentious Mountain Valley natural gas pipeline project. Many Virginia communities have revolted against the venture. The pipeline, proposed will run through West Virginia, Virginia and a sliver of North Carolina, has had multiple permits repeatedly struck down since it was initially approved in 2017. It is now expected to cost more than $6 billion to complete, more than double the original cost estimate. The Manchin bill would move the legal venue for challenges to Mountain Valley from the 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in Richmond to the U.S. Circuit Court for the District of Columbia Circuit. The bill text also includes a provision imposing a two-year deadline on permitting reviews for major projects under NEPA, and one year for projects with less impact. With Freeda we talk about the work she does, the bill, the effects it has on the MVP, how the MVP effects communities and energy permitting provisions. Contact and connect with Freeda: contactfreeda@gmail.com Voting: https://www.coxenterprises.com/cox-conserves/cox-conserves-heroes/vote/freeda-cathcart Manchin Bill: https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2022/sep/21/joe-manchin-energy-bill-fossil-fuels https://www.elliottdavis.com/whats-in-the-manchin-shumer-bill-on-taxes-climate-energy-and-healthcare/
With OPEC+ committed to gutting production, Americans are bracing for a gas price hike. This leads Sen. Bill Cassidy to wonder, how should the U.S. maintain a relationship with the Saudis when “what they do can make or break a family budget”? On the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee Cassidy calls for more market-based solutions to both bolster energy independence and get carbon emissions under control. He joins Sarah to wrestle with all these problems –– and their political implications –– before turning to the main event: the ultimate Louisiana VS Texas BBQ showdown.
J.D. Vance: A conversation about his campaign for the U.S. Senate: https://www.richlandsource.com/news/elections/j-d-vance-a-conversation-about-his-campaign-for-the-u-s-senate/article_abf7320e-27b0-11ed-9ea3-975a0a65855d.html?block_id=1098581 ENERGY - EDM Dance Event: https://www.richlandsource.com/local_events/energy---edm-dance-event/event_cbdc22e6-2486-11ed-84f8-efe05388aa96.html If you listened to Wednesday's episode you would've heard a conversation between Richland Source reporters and Republican J.D. Vance, a candidate for the U.S. Senate from Ohio, about the issue of drugs and drug addiction in Ohio. Today, more from our conversation with Vance, specifically on the issue of energy. Support the show: https://www.sourcemembers.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Today's episode falls on the 246th birthday of our great nation. Before I get around to recognizing the day and reminding us all what was pledged on the day they signed the Declaration of Independence, we have to go over two news items. Both of these are crucial in reminding you this Administration is not interested in one nation, indivisible. They clearly want two divisions – two-tiers if you will. The political elites and their confederates within media and Big Tech want their establishment class to have a different set of rules and expectations. The J6 Committee is there to remind all of us of that very notion. As discussed last week, the J6 Hearings exist to carry out three objectives: 1) The 2020 election was perfect; 2) Anyone who questions irregularities in the 2020 election should be considered guilty of insurrection; and, 3) Any outsider who dares to rock the apple cart again, will meet the same fate as Donald Trump and his supporters. This brings us to Cassidy Hutchinson. While we were all trying to stretch our pocketbooks for our 4th of July gatherings, a text chain was discovered. Hutchinson was concerned over having to testify to the J6 Committee and reached out to the First Amendment Fund, the American Conservative Union and CPAC for help. She new the committee was going to distort anything in an effort to go after Trump and his supporters and wanted assistance to avoid things getting “unnecessarily elevated.” It will be interesting to see if we ever learn what was promised her by the Committee to perjure herself all in the name of the greater good of defeating a man who has been gone from office for almost two years. Also under the cover of a long holiday weekend, the Biden Administration missed the deadline for major oil and gas leases and sales. The Department of the Interior, under Secretary Deb Haaland failed to follow the law and prepare a final five-year leasing plan. According to Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee Ranking Member John Barrasso (R-WY), “That means the federal government will not offer any new offshore oil and gas lease sales this year.” When Biden and this White House tell you they are doing all they can to help with the price at the pump, do you now have any doubt they have been lying this whole time? Finally, we have to spend time chatting about the 56 Americans who pledged their lives, their fortunes and their sacred honors when signing the Declaration of Independence. To help me, I turn to radio legend, Paul Harvey, for his masterful storytelling. It's a great way to end the show and remind each of us of what our Founders did and the expectations they had for our country. Now, it's up to us to elect people who pledge to adhere to those same ideals, not ones who want to fundamentally transform us into something else. Take a moment to rate and review the show and then share the episode on social media. You can find me on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, GETTR and TRUTH Social by searching for The Alan Sanders Show.
Hour 1 of The Dawn Stensland Show: Local News Headlines/News Rundown An ATV rider was killed in Northeast Philadelphia Thursday night after colliding with a Kia sedan. Police say the ATV was not licensed or street legal. With COVID-19 cases increasing, Cheltenham and Lower Merion Schools will reinstate mask mandates for students and teachers beginning on Friday. On Thursday, Malvern police were forced to shoot and kill a person while making a routine welfare check. Gas prices continue to rise across the country—one caller says he is going to be forced to quit his part-time job because he can no longer afford to commute as prices approach an average of $5 per-gallon in the Philadelphia-area. While speaking before the Senate Energy and Commerce Committee, Interior Secretary Deb Haaland refused to classify gas prices as “high” when questioned by Wyoming Senator John Barrasso. Earlier in the week, the Biden Administration announced they will loosen sanctions against Venezuela. Following negotiations, oil-company Chevron is expected to be licensed to resume business within the country. According to the New York Times, Venezuela and the Nicholas Maduro regime currently rely upon economic transactions with China, Russia, and Iran. According to the Wall Street Journal, credit reporting firms are noticing a substantial rise in missed loan payments from subprime borrowers. Goldman Sachs Chairman Lloyd Blankfein warned there is a “very, very high” risk a recession is coming.
May 12, 2022 - Senate Energy and Telecommunications Committee Chair Kevin Parker, a Brooklyn Democrat, discusses legislation that would put a two-year moratorium on air permits for fossil fuel power plants powering cryptocurrency mining operations.
What's up with Senator Laura Acasio. The host for this show is Marco Mangelsdorf. The guest is Laura Acasio. The Hawaii Legislature enters into its final month of this year's session. We get a briefing from Senator Acasio on the ups, downs and round and rounds of this year's session, who represents District 1 on the east side of the Big Island. The ThinkTech YouTube Playlist for this show is https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLQpkwcNJny6lQsvQmOsP0QUupA452eOm2 Please visit our ThinkTech website at https://thinktechhawaii.com and see our Think Tech Advisories at https://thinktechadvisories.blogspot.com.
Federal Energy Regulatory Commission Chair Richard Glick is one of President Joe Biden's biggest allies when it comes to putting climate change at the forefront of federal energy policy. But that climate focus may cost him his job since he has pushed policies that have angered prominent lawmakers — including many Republicans and, perhaps most crucially, Senate Energy and Natural Resources Chair Joe Manchin. POLITICO's Catherine Morehouse reports. Kelsey Tamborrino is a reporter covering clean energy and is the host of the POLITICO Energy podcast. Catherine Morehouse is an energy reporter for POLITICO. Nirmal Mulaikal is a POLITICO audio host-producer. Carlos Prieto is an audio producer for POLITICO. Raghu Manavalan is a senior editor for POLITICO audio. Jenny Ament is the executive producer of POLITICO's audio department.
From spotting prize bucks to capturing porch pirates, cameras have become an increasingly popular tool for hunters and everyday homeowners. However, some wildlife protectors argue live cameras are unethical, while privacy advocates are leery of hunters surveilling private property. Earlier this year the New Hampshire House of Representatives passed a bill to add regulations on how hunters can use game cameras. The next step is a public hearing before the Senate Energy and Natural Resources committee. Listen as hosts Anna Brown and Mike Dunbar, of Citizens Count break it down in $100 Plus Mileage. This podcast is produced in partnership with Citizens Count, Granite State News Collaborative and The Marlin Fitzwater Center for Communications at Franklin Pierce University.
David Rubenstein interviewed The Honorable Joseph Manchin III, United States Senator for West Virginia, on Tuesday, October 26, 2021.Senator Manchin was sworn into the United States Senate on November 15, 2010 and is currently serving in his third term. He remains committed to working with Republicans and Democrats to find commonsense solutions to the problems our country faces and is working hard to usher in a bipartisan spirit in the Senate and Congress. He serves as the Chairman of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, and also serves on the Senate Committees of Appropriations, Armed Services, and Veterans' Affairs.Prior to joining the Senate, Senator Manchin served as the 34th Governor of West Virginia from 2005 to 2010 and the 27th Secretary of State of West Virginia from 2001 to 2005. Senator Manchin attended West Virginia University on a football scholarship and graduated with a degree in business administration in 1970.
The Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee questioned Mr. Sams this past week during his confirmation hearing. He's an interesting nominee. He's from outside the National Park Service, and if confirmed he would be the first Native American director of the Park Service. Discussing his nomination are Phil Francis of the Coalition to Protect America's National Parks, and Kristen Brengel of the National Parks Conservation Association.
America's vast electric grid is about to go through a major evolution as it adapts to the looming electrification of transportation. In this episode of Grid Talk, we talk with Philip Jones who is the Executive Director of the Alliance for Transportation Electrification. Mr. Jones talks about the need for more generation and transmission.“We as a nation as we electrify transportation … there's going to be a significant increase in use, probably 15 to 20% over the next 20 years.” Jones said. “This is a very substantial transformation.”He also talks about managing the system across different regulatory environments.“If we get 70; 50-60-70% of the fleet, light-duty and medium-duty electrified, we just need to have both these passive and active load management policies in place because otherwise, the system's not going to work.”“It's a much more complex system to run and manage for the utility and the grid operator but it offers a lot of load for a management flexibility.”Philip B. Jones is the president of Phil Jones Consulting LLC, where he provides consulting services to the energy industry. He serves as the Executive Director of the Alliance for Transportation Electrification.Jones previously served as a Commissioner on the Washington State Public Utilities Commission. From 1983 – 1988 Jones served as senior legislative assistant to Senator Daniel J. Evans, the former U.S. Senator from Washington State, and staffed him on energy policy issues before the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee. He was responsible for a broad range of energy issues, including hydroelectric re-licensing, nuclear waste management, energy conservation and renewables, and the Bonneville Power Administration.Jones graduated from Harvard with a degree in East Asian Studies in 1977.
When it comes to the reconciliation bill, fights over health care and taxes — which are still unresolved by the way — have been the focus while other major policy areas like climate have received little attention. But that's about to change. House committees have now marked up the key pieces of climate policy. And with the Senate's return this week, all eyes will once again be on Sen. Joe Manchin, who as chairman of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, is responsible for writing the single most important piece of climate legislation. It's a bill that could determine whether the United States meets an aggressive emissions-reduction target scientists say is needed to avert global catastrophe (no pressure). Raghu Manavalan is the host of POLITICO's Playbook. Jenny Ament is the senior producer for POLITICO Audio. Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO Audio.
Shadow Politics with US Senator Michael D Brown and Maria Sanchez
Shadow Politics with Senator Michael Brown and Maria Sanchez and guest Mary L Landrieu Our guest is Senator Mary L. Landrieu (D-La.). She served in the United States Senate for three terms. As chair of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, she passed several important pieces of legislation. As we pass the DC statehood bill in the House of Representatives for the second time, I will speak with Sen. Landrieu about our prospects for passage of the companion legislation in the Senate. I will get her thoughts on the obstacles we will face in the Senate and her insights on how we can most effectively move the legislation forward. Given her experience as former chair of the Senate Small Business Committee, I will discuss with the senator how we can facilitate the resurgence of small business after the pandemic and the revival of bipartisanship in Congress.
April 5, 2021 - At the end of March, the state legislature approved a measure that would prevent public and private utilities from shutting off services, including gas, water, electric, cable and internet. Senate Energy and Telecommunications Committee Chair Kevin Parker, a Brooklyn Democrat, who sponsored the bill, joins the show to explain why this protection is needed for the rest of the year.
Rep. Deb Haaland (D-New Mexico) is on her way to making history yet again, this time as the first Native person in a presidential cabinet. By a vote of 11-9 on March 4, 2021, the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee approved Haaland's nomination to serve as Secretary of the Interior in President Joe Biden's administration. “It is long past time to give a Native American woman a seat at the Cabinet table,” said Sen. Joe Manchin (D-West Virginia), the chairman of the committee. The committee's roll call fell largely along party lines. All 10 Democrats on the legislative panel voted in favor of Haaland, who is a citizen of the Pueblo of Laguna. Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) crossed party lines to support the nomination. She said Native people in Alaska are “enormously proud to have a Native American nominated to this position.” Haaland's nomination can now be considered by the full U.S. Senate. Republican lawmakers -- some from states with significant Indian Country populations -- have said they will try to stall the floor vote. If confirmed, Haaland would be the first Native person to lead the Department of the Interior, the federal agency with the most trust and treaty responsibilities to tribes and their citizens.
Yesterday, the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee approved and sent to the full Senate the nomination of President Biden’s pick to be the next Secretary of the Interior Department. Her name is Congresswoman Deb Haaland.
In Episode 136 of District of Conservation, Gabriella discusses these three things: President Trump's legacy on conservation and energy issues; on whether Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) will vote with Republicans on energy/conservation issues; and the news about President-elect Biden canceling the Keystone XL pipeline once he assumes office. Working document on President Trump's agency successes & bills signed into law E&E Interview with Senator Manchin Townhall Column on Manchin (use code HOFFMAN to access) POLITICO story on Keystone XL pipeline --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/district-of-conservation/support
Senator Lisa Murkowski, chairman of the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee (ENR), records the seventeenth episode of her podcast. As her chairmanship comes to a close, Murkowski is joined by Senator Joe Manchin, ENR ranking member and the first guest she had on the podcast, for discussion of their bipartisan work on the committee.
Segment of Latest Conservative Climate Change Podcast
The 2020 election will be one of the most consequential contests for the outdoor recreation economy. Following enactment of the Great American Outdoors Act, our top priorities are all on the ballot – from tackling climate change and preserving our public lands and waters to expanding access to the outdoors for all Americans to new investments in green infrastructure and close-to-home recreation as outdoor companies recover from the COVID-19 pandemic. What can outdoorists expect from the next administration and Congress? What can we learn from our past wins, and how can we ensure our voice is heard? Listen to this timely discussion of these issues featuring OIA Executive Director Lise Aangeenbrug and Senator Martin Heinrich (D-NM), one of Congress’ leading sportsmen and conservationists and a member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee.
Senator Lisa Murkowski, chairman of the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, records the tenth episode of her new podcast. This episode features Dr. Ernest Moniz, a nuclear physicist who served as Secretary of the Department of Energy from 2013 to 2017, and is currently the president of the Energy Futures Initiative. Subsequent episodes will include additional updates from the ENR Committee, guest interviews, and discussion of various issues related to Murkowski's home state.
Senator Lisa Murkowski, chairman of the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, records the ninth episode of her new podcast. This episode features Janet Weiss, who recently retired from her position as President of BP Alaska. Subsequent episodes will include additional updates from the ENR Committee, guest interviews, and discussion of various issues related to Murkowski's home state.
Senator Lisa Murkowski, chairman of the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, records the eighth episode of her new podcast. This episode features Nelson Angapak, a Vietnam War-era veteran, discussing the decades long issue of Alaska Native Vietnam War-era veteran land allotments. Subsequent episodes will include additional updates from the ENR Committee, guest interviews, and discussion of various issues related to her home state.
Senator Lisa Murkowski, chairman of the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, records the seventh episode of her new podcast. This episode features Simon Moores from Benchmark Mineral Intelligence, discussing mineral supply chains and U.S. foreign mineral dependence. Subsequent episodes will include additional updates from the ENR Committee, guest interviews, and discussion of various issues related to her home state.
Senator Lisa Murkowski, chairman of the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, records the fourth episode of her new podcast. This episode features Robert McNally, President of Rapidan Energy Group, LLC; and Kevin Book, Director of Research and Co-Founder of ClearView Energy Partners, LLC to discuss oil markets. Subsequent episodes will include additional updates from the ENR Committee, guest interviews, and discussion of various issues related to her home state.
Senator Lisa Murkowski, chairman of the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, records the fifth episode of her new podcast. This episode features Jack Hebert and Bruno Grunau from the Cold Climate Housing Research Center; and Dr. Martin Keller from the National Renewable Energy Lab. Subsequent episodes will include additional updates from the ENR Committee, guest interviews, and discussion of various issues related to her home state.
Senator Lisa Murkowski, chairman of the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, records the sixth episode of her new podcast. This episode features Alaska's State Seismologist and Director of the Alaska Earthquake Center at the University of Alaska Fairbanks (UAF) Geophysical Institute, Mike West; and Coordinating Scientist at the Alaska Volcano Observatory at UAF's Geophysical Institute, David Fee.
Senator Lisa Murkowski, chairman of the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, records the second episode of her new podcast. This episode features Ranking Member Joe Manchin, D-WV. Subsequent episodes will include additional updates from the ENR Committee, guest interviews, and discussion of various issues related to her home state.
Senator Lisa Murkowski, chairman of the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee kicks off her new podcast. Subsequent episodes will include updates from the ENR Committee, guest interviews, and discussion of various issues related to her home state.
Senator Lisa Murkowski, chairman of the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, records the third episode of her new podcast. This episode features Alaska's State Forester Chris Maisch, to discuss wildfires and the brave men and women who fight them.
Welcome to the new #STEM series of the Mastering College to Career Podcast. In this episode I introduce you to my Co-Host for the #STEM series, Miguel Angel Cuen a Computer Science Student at the University of Arizona. We talk to Dr. Zack Valdez who is the Manager of Career Services for the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers. We learn about Zack's journey from being a superstar soccer player and getting multiple degrees in STEM to now leading the Career Services team for SHPE. We dive into the things you can do to increase your chances of success and we talk about why every STEM college student should join SHPE. If you would like to learn more about SHPE visit https://www.shpe.org/ or email Zack at zackv@shpe.org About Zack Zack Valdez received his B.S. in Engineering in Physics before earning a Ph.D. in biogeochemistry at Baylor University. His professional experience at Southwest Research Institute and multiple graduate research opportunities focused on big data analytics to create interdisciplinary solutions within the energy industry. Post-Ph.D., Zack worked with U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee to develop science policy and has transitioned to non-profit work with AGU Community Science Program Management and now develops career services to promote Hispanics in STEM with the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers. Zack enjoys playing competitive soccer around the DMV area and spending time with friends and family back home in Texas.
Welcome to the new #STEM series of the Mastering College to Career Podcast. In this episode I introduce you to my Co-Host for the #STEM series, Miguel Angel Cuen a Computer Science Student at the University of Arizona. We talk to Dr. Zack Valdez who is the Manager of Career Services for the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers. We learn about Zack's journey from being a superstar soccer player and getting multiple degrees in STEM to now leading the Career Services team for SHPE. We dive into the things you can do to increase your chances of success and we talk about why every STEM college student should join SHPE. If you would like to learn more about SHPE visit https://www.shpe.org/ or email Zack at zackv@shpe.org About Zack Zack Valdez received his B.S. in Engineering in Physics before earning a Ph.D. in biogeochemistry at Baylor University. His professional experience at Southwest Research Institute and multiple graduate research opportunities focused on big data analytics to create interdisciplinary solutions within the energy industry. Post-Ph.D., Zack worked with U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee to develop science policy and has transitioned to non-profit work with AGU Community Science Program Management and now develops career services to promote Hispanics in STEM with the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers. Zack enjoys playing competitive soccer around the DMV area and spending time with friends and family back home in Texas.
US lawmakers from oil-producing states are trying to increase pressure on the White House to do something to help drillers getting hammered by plummeting prices -- from aggressive diplomacy to banning crude imports. We spoke with US Senator Lisa Murkowski, chairman of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee. She expects producers in her home state of Alaska to take an immediate hit from current prices. Additionally, she said operations could be scaled back significantly after a case of coronavirus was confirmed this week on the North Slope.
US lawmakers from oil-producing states are trying to increase pressure on the White House to do something to help drillers getting hammered by plummeting prices -- from aggressive diplomacy to banning crude imports. We spoke with US Senator Lisa Murkowski, chairman of the Senate Energy and Natural...
Ag Commissioner Dr. Charlie Hatcher presented his budget proposal for the Tennessee Department of Agriculture before the Senate Energy, Agriculture and Natural Resources committee this week. The post Ag Budget Proposal to Senate Ag Committee appeared first on Tennessee Farm Bureau.
Congress is moving at full speed ahead of the Thanksgiving break. Today, the Senate Energy Committee will vote on the nominations of Dan Brouillette for Energy secretary, James Danly as FERC boardmember, and Katherine Macgregor for deputy Interior secretary, while the House Energy and Commerce committee holds a massive markup that includes a ban on asbestos and legislation on PFAS chemicals. Meanwhile on the Hill, more public testimony unfolds as part of the impeachment probe, and a group of climate activists gathers at Nancy Pelosi’s office. Find more on the show at politico.com/energy-podcast.
Dan Brouillette heads to the Senate Energy and Natural Resources committee to begin his confirmation hearings, as he's set to take over from outgoing Secretary Rick Perry next month. Also, one of the Trump administration's most frequent rivals in the courts, California's attorney general Xavier Becerra, sits down for an exclusive interview with POLITICO. And, president Donald Trump confirms that American troops remain in Syria to protect oil fields. Find more on the show at politico.com/energy-podcast.
When it comes to reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the U.S., the private sector is playing a bigger role than ever before, and that goes for some energy providers, too. Among them is Xcel Energy, the first major U.S. utility to pledge to go entirely carbon-free. In this edition of Columbia Energy Exchange, host Bill Loveless sits down with Ben Fowke, the chairman, President and CEO of Xcel Energy, which in December announced a bold commitment to provide 100% carbon-free electricity to its customers by 2050. Not only that, but Xcel also set a goal of cutting the company’s carbon emissions by 80% by 2030, compared to 2005 levels. Since then, other utilities have also unveiled major carbon-cutting initiatives. Among them Idaho Power and Public Service Company of New Mexico, with goals of 100% carbon-free electricity by 2045 and 2040, respectively. Ben doesn’t pretend that achieving Xcel Energy’s goals will be easy and he tells Bill why. Nevertheless, he’s confident that the Minneapolis-based company, with 3.6 million customers in Colorado, Michigan, Minnesota, Texas and four other states, is off to a good start. Bill caught up with Ben while he was in Washington to testify on energy storage before the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee. They talked about his company’s ambitious carbon agenda, including its growing reliance on renewable energy and its movement away from coal for electric generation. They also discussed the role that natural gas and nuclear energy will play in Xcel’s resource plans and the challenges of finding the technologies necessary to make carbon-free electricity a reality for Xcel and other utilities. Not surprisingly, the Green New Deal came up in their talk as did proposals for a carbon tax and other options for policymakers to consider in addressing climate change.
Sponsors: Fairfax City, Analytics2Go, LookingGlass Host: Jennifer Taylor, Future of Work Sara Decker joined Walmart in May 2017 and currently serves as the Director of Federal Government Affairs at Walmart handling all energy, transportation, and commerce policy issues. Previously, Decker served as Legislative Director for Senator Marco Rubio. Decker joined Rubio's office in February 2011 as a Legislative Assistant for energy, environment, agriculture and trade legislative policy. She then served as a Professional Staff Member on the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science & Transportation, handling Rubio's legislative portfolio as Ranking Member on the Subcommittee on Oceans, Atmosphere, Fisheries and Coast Guard. Decker was promoted to Legislative Director with Senator Rubio in December 2014 and worked in Senator Rubio's office until joining Walmart. Prior to joining Rubio's office, Decker served as a Legislative Assistant to retired Congressman John Shadegg (R-AZ) doing energy, environment, agricultural, and transportation policy and as a Legislative Aide to the late Senator Pete Domenici (R-NM) on the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee. Decker currently serves on the board of the Congressional Hispanic Leadership Institute as well as the board of the Women in High Tech Coalition.
The U.S. economy kicked into high gear in 2018, and the results were evident in nearly every energy sector including overall demand, power generation, energy prices and carbon emissions. So, what does this mean for the movement to sustainable energy? In this edition of the Columbia Energy Exchange, host Bill Loveless talks to Lisa Jacobson, the president of the Business Council for Sustainable Energy, a coalition of companies and trade associations representing the energy efficiency, natural gas and renewable energy sectors. Every year, the council along with Bloomberg New Energy Finance puts out “Sustainable Energy in America Factbook,” providing annual information on key trends in the U.S. energy sectors. The 2019 edition of the report, the seventh compiled, illustrates the extent to which the U.S. energy picture is changing and what it indicates for the nation’s economy. Lisa has headed the Business Council for Sustainable Energy for about 15 years, after having worked on Capitol Hill as a congressional aide. She is a member of the Department of Energy’s State Energy Efficiency Steering Committee, the U.S. Trade Representative’s Trade and Environment Policy Advisory Committee, and the Gas Technology Institute’s Public Interest Advisory Committee. She has represented energy industries before the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change and testified before Congress. In fact, she had just appeared before the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee regarding the 2019 factbook when she and Bill spoke at her office in Washington. They talked about the latest findings in the various energy sectors as well as a couple of questions the report raises about energy productivity in the U.S. and the absence of federal policy on climate change.
Is there a bipartisan path forward on meaningful climate policy in America? If so, what does it look like?Those are questions we’ve been grappling with on Political Climate this entire podcast season. Now we’re putting them — point blank — to our Democrat and Republican co-hosts.This is our solutions show, and our final episode for 2018.We kick it off with a rundown of the latest news headlines and issues to watch heading into the new year, including a coal-friendly Democrat taking a top spot on the Senate Energy and Committee, a new carbon fee and dividend bill, and a big utility’s voluntary 100 percent clean energy target.Then the pressure is on co-hosts Brandon and Shane to share their climate policy solutions (21:30). We get both a big picture vision and specifics around what they think decision-makers can get done in the coming years. Plus, a cameo from the Governator.We wind down show by reflecting on our takeaways from Season One of this bipartisan podcasting effort, where things get a little personal (47:50).Then, as always, we cap it all off with our “Say Something Nice” segment — where our Democrat and Republican co-hosts have to say something redeeming about the opposing political party.This is our last podcast of the year, but this doesn’t have to be goodbye! You can always catch up on previous episodes you may have missed, featuring interviews with Senator Martin Heinrich, Top Trump EPA official Mandy Gunasekara, Mary Nichols, chair of the California Air Resources Board, and many other decision-makers and thought leaders in climate and energy.Then look out for a whole new season in 2019! Thank you for listening.Recommended reading:NYT: Joe Manchin Faces Liberal Opposition in Bid to Be Energy Panel’s Top DemocratBloomberg: Bipartisan Climate Fee Backers to Plant Flag During Lame DuckGTM: Xcel Energy Commits to 100% Carbon-Free Electricity by 2050Vox: US climate politics just got even more polarized. Here’s how Democrats can move forward.Subscribe to the Political Climate podcast via ApplePodcasts, GooglePlay, TuneIn, Overcast, Stitcher and Spotify.Follow Political Climate on Twitter @Poli_Climate.
Innovation in clean energy is often said to be a critical component to successfully reducing greenhouse gas emissions. History suggests, however, that more R&D spending doesn't always result in lower emissions. How can policymakers make the most of every R&D dollar? What's politically possible in Washington? And what technologies should we be watching for? Recently, Axios energy reporter and EPIC journalism fellow Amy Harder discussed this topic at a dinner in downtown Washington, DC. She was joined by EPIC Director Michael Greenstone; EPIC policy fellow McKie Campbell, a managing partner of BlueWater Strategies and former staff director for the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee; and Rich Powell, executive director of the ClearPath Foundation, which works to advance conservative policies that accelerate clean energy innovation.
Dr. Zack Valdez, a AAAS Science & Technology Policy Fellow in the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee with a background in engineering and geoscience, interviews Ortwinn Renn. Professor Renn is scientific director at the Institute for Advanced Sustainability Studies (IASS) in Potsdam (Germany), and serves as the spokesperson for the Kopernikus Project for the Energy Transition Navigation System, also known as ENavi. He discusses how Germany is attempting to reduce dependence on traditional fossil fuels by developing a sustainable and renewable energy infrastructure to account for 80% of Germany’s energy needs. Within this framework, Professor Renn explores social and economic factors relating to energy security, consumer preferences, and the use of digital technologies to more effectively manage energy consumption.
Senator Guy Palumbo was elected to the State Senate in 2016, but has already become a prominent figure in Washington State Politics. He serves as the vice chair on the Senate Higher Education & Workforce Development Committee, the Senate Local Government Committee, and the Senate Energy, Environment & Technology Committee. He also serves on the powerful Ways & Means committee. We chat with Senator Palumbo about the 2018 session and his personal background before moving to the work done on trying to pass a carbon tax. He also provides valuable insight into the pollution fee initiative that is likely to be on the ballot this fall.
On September 20, 2017, Hurricane Maria wiped out the electricity on the entire island of Puerto Rico. Six months later the lights are still off for too many people. In this episode, by hearing highlights of Congressional testimony from Puerto Rico's government officials and through stories of Jen's recent trip to the island, learn the good news and the bad news about life right now on Puerto Rico. Please Support Congressional Dish Click here to contribute using credit card, debit card, PayPal, or Bitcoin Click here to support Congressional Dish for each episode via Patreon Mail Contributions to: 5753 Hwy 85 North #4576 Crestview, FL 32536 Thank you for supporting truly independent media! Recommended Congressional Dish Episodes CD028: Crisis in Puerto Rico CD147: Controlling Puerto Rico Additional Recommended Listening The David Pakman Show Additional Reading Article: Needs go unmet 6 months after Maria hit Puerto Rico by Danica Coto, AP News, March 20, 2018. Article: Six months after Maria, the hardest hit city in Puerto Rico is still being ignored by AJ Vicens, Grist, March 20, 2018. Article: The battle for paradise by Naomi Klein, The Intercept, March 20, 2018. Report: U.S. executive appointed head Puerto Rico power company by Dalissa Zeda Sanchez, Caribbean Business, March 20, 2018. Report: Puerto Rico legislature sends education reform to governor's desk for enactment by Genesis Ibarra, Caribbean Business, March 20, 2018. Report: Gov presents Puerto Rio justice, agriculture reorganization plans, Caribbean Business, March 20, 2018. Article: 'We are the forgotten people': It's been almost six months since Hurricane Maria, and Puerto Ricans are still dying by John D. Stutter, CNN, March 15, 2018. Article: Puerto Rico reforms could boost GNP by 1.5 percent: Jaresko by Daniel Bases, Reuters, March 14, 2018. Press Release: Committee seeks answers on corruption at Puerto Rico Power Utility, House Committee on Natural Resources, March 12, 2018. Report: Recycled proposals in Puerto Rico's fiscal plans by Luis J. Valentin Ortiz, City & State New York, March 11, 2018. Article: 'This city has been ignored': Yabucoa, ground zero for Hurricane Maria in Puerto Rico, still reeling by Rick Jervis, USA Today, March 11, 2018. Article: The role of private investment in rebuilding Puerto Rico by The Brian Lehrer Show, WNYC, March 8, 2018. Opinion: Puerto Rico? Guinea pig for water privatization by Britt Fremstad, Public Citizen, 2018. Article: Why Puerto Rico is pushing to privatize its schools by Mimi Kirk, City Lab, February 27, 2018. Report: Citigroup drove Puerto Rico into debt. Now it will profit from privatization on the island by Kate Aronoff, The Intercept, February 21, 2018. Report: Hedge fund-driven austerity could come back to bite the hedge funds driving it in Puerto Rico by Kate Aronoff, The Intercept, February 3, 2018. Article: Privatization won't fix Puerto Rico's broken power utility by Lara Merling, NACLA, February 1, 2018. Press Release: Bishop statement on Puerto Rico fiscal plans, PREPA privatization by House Committee on Natural Resources, January 25, 2018. Report: Puerto Rico governor seizes opportunity created by Hurricane Maria, plans to privatize electric power by Kate Aronoff, The Intercept, January 24, 2018. Article: The peril of privatizing PREPA by Vann R. Newkirk II, The Atlantic, January 24, 2018. Report: Puerto Rico to sell off crippled power utility PREPA by Daniel Bases, Reuters, January 22, 2018. Report: Puerto Rico utility workers charge that federal government is hoarding reconstruction supplies by Kate Aronoff, The Intercept, January 16, 2018. Article: PREPA "Warehouse 5" was no secret by Alex Figueroa Cancel, El Nuevo Dia, January 16, 2018. Article: Energy answers marchincinerator: the struggle continues by Leysa Caro Gonzelez, El Nuevo Dia, January 16, 2018. Report: Armed federal agents enter warehouse in Puerto Rico to sieze hoarded electric equipment by Kate Aronof, The Intercept, January 10, 2018. Article: Puerto Rico said 64 people died in Hurricane Maria. A new report puts the death toll over 1,000 by Aric Jenkins, Time.com, December 19, 2017. Report: Nearly 1,000 more people died in Puerto Rico after Hurricane Maria by Center for Investigative Journalism, Latino USA, December 7, 2017. Law Firm Post: Did you lose money investing in Puerto Rico bonds with Morgan Stanley financial advisor Robert Dennison? by Erez Law Firm, December 6, 2017. Article: The lineman got $63 an hour. The utility was billed at $319 an hour. by Frances Robles, The New York Times, November 12, 2017. Article: Ex-Morgan Stanley broker at center of Puerto Rico bond disputes by Bruce Kelly, Investment News, September 28, 2017. Report: Maps: Hurricane Maria's path across Puerto Rico by Sarah Almukhtar, Matthew Bloch, Ford Fessenden and Jugal K. Patel, The New York Times, September 26, 2017. Article: Incinerating the future: Austerity crisis threatens wetlands and economic opportunity for Puerto Rico by Adriana Gonzelez, The Planet: Sierra Club, August 14, 2017. Report: Puerto Rico's Fiscal Control Board spent $31 million in fiscal year 2017 by Julio Ricardo Varela, Latino USA, August 2, 2017. Report: SEC probes Barclays, Morgan Stanley bankers over Puerto Rico by Martin Z. Braun, Bloomberg, June 28, 2017. Report: Puerto Rico Senate approves bill to eliminate debt audit commission by Cindy Burgos Alvarado, Caribbean Business, April 18, 2017. Article: A glimpse of Natalie Jaresko by Jose A. Delgado Robles, El Nuevo Dia, March 29, 2017. Article: Ukraine must fully implement IMF Program, says former finance minister by Mitch Hulse, Atlantic Council, April 14, 2016. Article: How free electricity helped dig $9 billion hole in Puerto Rico by Mary Williams Walsh, The New York Times, February 1, 2016. Article: Puerto Rico - a way forward by Anne O. Krueger, Ranjit Teja, and Andrew Wolfe, GDB.PR.GOV, June 29, 2015. Article: Meet the woman overhauling Ukraine's economy - and born and raised in the suburbs of Chicago by James Ellingworth, Business Insider, March 1,2015. Article: Proposed Arecibo waste-to-energy plan gets EPA nod by Michelle Kantrow, Energy Answers, May 10, 2012. Research Paper: Does private management lead to improvement of water services? Lessons learned from the experiences of Bolivia and Puerto Rico by Susana Maria Cortina de Cardenas, University of Iowa Research Online, Spring 2011. Resources DESMOG Blog Info: Edison Electric Institute Energy Answers Resources: Puerto Rico Resource Recovery and Renewable Energy Project International Monetary Fund Bio: Anne O. Krueger International Monetary Fund Blog: Ranjit Teja LinkedIn Profile: Noel Zamot, Federal Oversight Management Board USDA Report: Arecibo Waste to Energy Generation and Resource Recovery Facility Arecibo, Puerto Rico Sound Clip Sources Hearing: Hurricane Recovery Efforts in Puerto Rico and Virgin Islands, Power Utility Officials; Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, November 14, 2017. Witnesses: - Natalie Jaresko - Executive Director of the Financial Oversight and Management Board for Puerto Rico - Jose Roman Morales - Associate Commission and Interim President of the Puerto Rico Energy Commission - Ricardo Ramos - Executive Director of Puerto Rico Electric Power Authority - Julio Rhymer - Executive Director of the US Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority 53:40 Ricardo Ramos: Many of the fallen poles fell because of the additional weight of infrastructure that originally was not supposed to be there, so the grid itself is old—are new. Design standards account for an amount of additional infrastructure for communications and other, but many of the poles were—they had communications because some local law of Puerto Rico permitted the common right-of-way usage, so we had to allow telecom companies to put the telecommunications cables there—but the pole itself not necessarily was designed to those standards. 59:10 Natalie Jaresko: So, as you know, Madame Chairman, the board took an action and filed in the Title III court to name a chief transformation officer. The court ruled yesterday against us in that action, although we have not yet seen the written judgment, so I can’t comment on it in detail. Hearing: Hurricane Recovery Efforts in Puerto Rico and Virgin Islands, Governors; Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee Witnesses: - Donald Jackson - Deputy Commanding General of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Civil and Emergency Operations - Kenneth Mapp - Governor of US Virgin Islands - Jose Roman Morales - Associate Commission and Interim President of the Puerto Rico Energy Commission - Ricardo “Ricky” Rossello - Governor of Puerto Rico - Bruce Walker - Assistant Secretary of the Department of Energy, Office of Electricity Delivery and Energy Reliability 38:20 Assistant Secretary of the Department of Energy Bruce Walker: PREPA, with the limited crews that it had—I will point to this map over here—made an early decision to have to tie the southern portion, where the generation is, to the northern portion, where the load is. And in doing so, they made a key decision to construct the 230 kV line from the south, bringing it up to the San Juan area, the Bayamon substation. On the map, you can see here, from down here, wrapping up through here, that that align is going to appear all the way over to here. What was important about that was that one decision and the efforts made by PREPA, with limited staffing, enabled the power to be distributed to where the load was and in conjunction with the other big decision, which is the next slide, Jennifer, the Army Corps, working with PREPA, installed two 25-megawatt generators at the Palo Seco generation plant, and that, in conjunction with the rebuild of the 230 line, enabled power to be distributed to the northern portion to start picking up commercial and residential customers. Those two efforts were monumental, given the facts and circumstances. The installation of this generator was, with the letting of the contract and the install—and I was at Palo Seco when this was being put in—and the work that had to be done was really incredible—we had fantastic support from PREPA in coordinating it particularly with the re-laying and the coordination with the Army Corps. 1:10:00 Governor Ricardo Rossello: We have several flaws in terms of the design, aside from having antiquated power plants. Most of our generation was done in the south, yet most of the people and most of the consumption is done in the north, so you lose about 12 to 15% in the transmission, going northward. It is time, it is an opportunity, to rethink that, where do we have that generation and make it better? Piggybacking on Senator Cassidy’s comments, I think it is an opportunity also to leapfrog in renewables. I’ve envisioned us leapfrogging to 25% renewables in Puerto Rico and recognizing that there are some mitigation strategies that we need to put in place. That is why we have worked with the PREPA governing board to have a group of thought leaders that can actually help us in the design, looking forward, and specifically looking where this could happen. Last-mile events in Puerto Rico are very important. It’s important to consider the terrain. Puerto Rico’s not flat; it’s got a mountainous region. And so we will be very aggressively pursuing that we get to 90, 95% of energy consumption and energy generation, but that last mile always takes more time because there are sort of remote areas of the island. This is an opportunity to make microgrids in Puerto Rico so that they can be sustained in different areas. And, lastly, adding to this whole component of renewables, I think it is an opportunity to look at this from a bottom-up-and-a-top-down approach. With the collaboration of FEMA, we were able to, for the first time in the STEP program, allow that either a power plant generator be added to the house or a renewable battery-pack solar combo be added to those homes in the STEP program. Now, we expect that there will be about 80,000 homes that will be introduced in the STEP program. Think about what that means if half of them decide to go with the renewable battery-pack route. It means that now you have the starting conditions to actually think about things like a virtual power plant in Puerto Rico, where you can have smart distribution of the energy; and where some days it might be cloudy in some areas in Puerto Rico—it’ll be sunny, certainly, in others as well—and that energy can be distributed alongside, of course, a complement of utility-size and industrial-size generation, which I envision, Senator, should start transitioning from petroleum-based generation, which is costly and, of course, more harmful, to liquid-gas and so forth generation. So, those are, in a nutshell, what we envision the sort of future grid of Puerto Rico looking like. 1:34:15 Senator Catherine Cortez Masto: It’s my understanding under the Stafford Act, it’s Section 406(e), that limits the use of federal disaster-relief funds for repairing, restoring, reconstructing, or replacing a public facility or private nonprofit facility on the basis of the design of the facility as the facility existed immediately before the major disaster. Now, my understanding of that, then, is that all of the talk that I’ve heard today, which is important talk about new infrastructure—burying lines, looking at how we add renewable capacity—that is something that is not going to be addressed through the funding, through the relief, that comes from the federal government. Is that correct? And I guess I’m asking Mr. Walker and General Jackson, is that your understanding? Assistant Secretary of the Department of Energy Bruce Walker: That is my understanding. As I mentioned earlier, we’re doing emergency restoration work now. A number of the things that have been mentioned here, if the Congress approves additional appropriations, those would be opportunities that we could further, you know, build into— Masto: And that’s—are you asking today, then? That’s what you’re asking Congress today, additional appropriations outside of the Stafford Act be able to set up new infrastructure and do just what we’ve heard today, because we know another hurricane’s going to come through, or some other disaster. I think it’s just the way the climate is today. Is that the ask today from the governors? Governor Ricardo Rossello: To amend that, could you repeat the question, Senator? Masto: Sure. So, the Stafford Act limits the amount of— Rossello: Yeah. Masto: —money that you’re getting from the federal government for disaster relief to repair and reconstruct. Rossello: Yeah. Masto: It is not for new construction or new types of renewable energy or burying lines. So, are you coming today for additional funds outside of the Stafford Act, outside of disaster relief? Is that what I’m hearing today? Governor Kenneth Mapp: Yes. Yes, because under Stafford, if a system connected to the power generation isn’t damaged, it can’t be touched. If it’s cost effective, it can be mitigated, but the whole power system is all connected, and so if we want to change to more-efficient renewables—wind, solar—if the generation system hasn’t been damaged, then we can have an exclusion. So we will need changes in the language to permit that. Rossello: Yes. We are, we recognize what the limitations of FEMA funding are within this, so we’re asking for additional funding so that we can get that flexibility as well and actually rebuild better. I mean, again, you can discuss whether it’s a good idea or not on the context of the merit of the energy and the structure, but it is really just a bad idea to rebuild a system that is frail over again, spend good taxpayer money in that, because you’re going to have to do it once over again. 1:44:34 Senator Mazie Hirono (HI): Based on your estimates, how much are you asking Congress to fund in terms of the kind of modernization, resilience, etc. that you would like to see in Puerto Rico? Governor Ricardo Rossello: Yeah. It’s about $17 billion in damage estimates. Hirono: One year? Rossello: No. For the bulk of the process. Hirono: Seventeen billion dollars? Rossello: Yes, that’s right. Hirono: And is it your—well, I know that you hope that Congress will authorize that, and do you think that authorization or the funding to occur in one year, or is it over a period of time? Rossello: No, it would be over a period of time, of course. 1:53:28 Senator Bernie Sanders (VT): Puerto Rico is struggling with an unsustainable 75-billion-dollar debt and $49 billion in pension obligations. More than one-third of that debt is held by Wall Street vulture funds that are getting interest rates of up to 34% on tax-exempt bonds they purchased for as little as 29 cents on the dollar. Is that correct, Governor? Governor Ricardo Rossello: Yep. Hearing: Puerto Rico Recovery Challenges; House Natural Resources Committee, November 7, 2017. Witnesses: - Natalie Jaresko - Executive Director of the Financial Oversight and Management Board for Puerto Rico - Angel Perez Otero - Mayor of Guanynabo, Puerto Rico - Noel Zamot - Revitalization Coordinator of the Financial Oversight and Management Board for Puerto Rico 22:30 Natalie Jaresko: As the committee is aware, the board has recently named Noel Zamot as chief transformation officer of PREPA, with all the powers of a CEO and reporting to the board. We believe this is absolutely essential both to restoring service as soon as possible and to creating a sustainable, efficient, resilient, and fiscally accountable power system for the island. While the board is confident, the PROMESA, coupled with fundamental aspects of bankruptcy law, gives us the power and responsibility to do as we have done. Some parties are vigorously contesting our authority in proceedings before the Title III judge. To avoid uncertainty and lengthy delays and litigation, congressional reaffirmation of our exercise of our authority is welcome. 23:08 Natalie Jaresko: We have also implemented a contract-review policy as a tool to ensure transparency throughout the government, for the benefit of the people of Puerto Rico and all stakeholders. The policy applies to all contracts in which the commonwealth or any covered instrumentality is a counterparty, including those with the federal government, state governments, and private parties. The policy provides that all contracts of 10 million or more must be submitted to the board for its approval before execution. In addition, the board retains the authority to adopt other methods, such as random sampling of contracts below that 10-million-dollar threshold, to assure that they promote market competition and are not inconsistent with the approved fiscal plan. 26:48 Noel Zamot: I will retain key leaders on my staff to enable speed and effectiveness in our decision-making. I’d like to highlight two key roles. The chief operations officer will be responsible for day-to-day operations of the utility. This will initially be a senior leader from within PREPA but will be augmented by an industry executive identified in conjunction with input that we are receiving from the Edison Electric Institute. 27:41 Noel Zamot: I’ve also identified key executives to serve on a board of advisors. These are CEOs from public and private utilities who have generously volunteered to bring their considerable expertise to help with this task. I will also rely on an internal group of world-class experts from multi-national utilities, the energy sector, academia, and more. 28:22 Noel Zamot: Puerto Rico’s energy strategy calls for 50% renewables by 2040, with a balance of natural and LP gas mix; regional grids, with generation close to demand; physical hardening and control systems to provide resiliency; and widespread distributed generation, all wrapped by an empowered and accountable energy regulator. PROMESA is clear in its guidance to attract private capital to achieve this end state. We need to do just that, not only for generation but to attract innovative capital solutions from the private sector for transmission and distribution as well. 43:42 Representative Raul Grijalva (AZ): Do you or the board hold a view that, relative to Title V, waiving or eliminating additional federal environmental safeguards like NEPA or regulations will accelerate the recovery in Puerto Rico? Ms. Jaresko, you and then Mr. Zamot, if you don’t mind, as well, answering the question. Natalie Jaresko: I certainly believe that further expeditious permitting is a requirement. I’m not an expert on the individual sets of permitting, but I want to underline that it’s both federal, commonwealth, and municipality permitting at all levels. It needs to be expedited for any private-sector investment to become a quick recovery. Grijalva: Okay. Mr. Zamot, do you think that’s needed? Noel Zamot: Thank you, sir. My view is that economic growth and fast-tracking projects is not inconsistent with being good stewards of the environment, and we have a very robust process within Title V and within the working group that we have set with the government to ensure that we, the residents of Puerto Rico, are very respectful of that. Grijalva: If I may, sir, let me just follow up with you. You cite the proposed trash incinerators an example of a project Title V that could come to fruition, but I see an example of why Title V, in this instance, doesn’t work. Public comments about the project are overwhelming in opposition. It’s opposed by both mayors’ groups, representing all the mayors in the island. It was stalled in part because it couldn’t get a permit to drain 2.1 million gallons from a protected wetland. Farmers and residents concerned about the effects on their health, that it could undermine recycling programs that are in place. It flooded during the hurricane. We have a before-and-after situation, that’s up on the screen. It flooded during and released some of the hundreds of tons of toxic ash that could release, in the future, toxic ash into surrounding neighborhoods. And it requires a major loan from the federal government to go forward even though it’s fully privately funded for 67 megawatts of power. Is that what we can expect in terms of Title V critical projects? Zamot: Sir, there are many voices that, obviously, in a democratic process, voice their concern with such a project, but there are equal number of voices on the positive side. We don’t look at this project in Arecibo necessarily as even a power project. It is really a waste-management project. Puerto Rico has a critical, essentially a crisis, in waste management and landfill use that has been identified by the EPA, and that is why the EPA has actually been supportive of this program. 47:30 Representative Doug Lamborn (CO): Is it safe in assuming that pretty much 100% of the electricity generated in Puerto Rico today is from burning fuel oil? Noel Zamot: Sir, I would say it’s 96%. There is approximately 4% that is renewables in Puerto Rico right now. Lamborn: And as we know, fuel oil is very expensive and very dirty. Zamot: That is correct, sir. Lamborn: So, I like the plan. I think you said by 2040, 50% renewables, 50% natural gas through liquefied form. Zamot: That’s correct. Lamborn: Have you identified investors who are willing to make that huge investment in a LNG terminal? Zamot: Sir, there are a number of investors that are actually very bullish on Puerto Rico’s long-term prospects, and we and the board and specifically in my role as revitalization coordinator, we receive a lot of proposals, a lot of questions about how people can bring innovative capital solutions using private capital to bear, to benefit, the reconstruction of the grid and the people of Puerto Rico. Lamborn: Well, I would really urge you to keep pushing in that direction because I don’t think nuclear or coal is going to be a solution. Renewables are great, but to provide that much electricity in that short of time is unrealistic. So I welcome the discussion about LNG. 50:30 Representative Doug Lamborn (CO): And the last thing I want to ask you about is that 800-million-dollar project, and the ranking member referred to it: burning waste to create electricity. Is my understanding that that would be privately funded and would not need government subsidies of any kind? Noel Zamot: That is correct, sir. It’s entirely privately funded. Some of the capital structure includes some federal loans, but there is no money from Puerto Rico, and it relies on relatively new technology that is respectful of emissions. 51:53 Representative Grace Napolitano (CA): The incinerator would be built in an area in Arecibo previously contaminated by a battery recycling plant, and it was flooded during the hurricanes. Has the area been tested for lead, arsenic, and other contaminants? Noel Zamot: Ma’am, I do not have the specific details on what work has been accomplished to date, but we do know that the company that is planning that work has done extensive mitigation pre-work— Napolitano: How long has the plant been there, that it hasn’t been tested? Zamot: Ma’am, I do not have that information. Napolitano: Would you mind sending the answers to this committee— Zamot: Yes, ma’am. Napolitano: —so we can understand that. And how does the Energy Answers Arecibo, LLC plan to prevent their landfill from being flooded by future hurricanes? Zamot: Ma’am, could you repeat the question? Napolitano: How do you prevent landfill from being flooded by hurricanes? Zamot: That is an engineering question that I’m not prepared to answer right now. I would imagine that that has been looked at in the permitting that the company has received to date. Napolitano: Okay. When and—how and when does the company plan to bury the toxic ashes generated by the incinerator? Zamot: That is being currently discussed with the current Puerto Rico administration. Napolitano: Is, let’s see, how many Puerto Rico municipalities refuse to send trash to the plant incinerator? Zamot: I think the answer to that is many, because that represents a threat to current waste management in Puerto Rico, which the EPA has identified as a critical need to address. 1:19:36 Representative Steve Pearce (NM): Now, one of the problems that I see, just as a former business owner taking a look at it, one of the reasons that residents had to pay such a high rate is that certain entities didn’t have to pay for the electrical power. One of those would be the hotels. So are they still exempt from paying their power? Natalie Jaresko: Each of the economic development plans that Puerto Rico implemented over the years had individual tax agreements— Pearce: I’m just asking about the hotels. Jaresko: —between businesses and energy. Pearce: Are they still exempt? Are they not exempt? Jaresko: Some of them are, yes. Pearce: Some of them are exempt. Jaresko: That’s correct. Pearce: Now, also, cities were also exempt, and so city governments were exempt prior, according to what I’ve read. Noel Zamot: That’s correct, sir. 1:38:50 Natalie Jaresko: The board certainly considers privatization as one of the options going forward. There’s a question that remains open to see whether it’s privatization of the entire power sector, meaning generation transmission and distribution or some select part, or whether it just means bringing in private sector to compete and bring down the cost and bring up the efficiency of electricity. We’re looking at all of those as we define this fiscal plan for PREPA. 1:49:50 Representative Raul Labrador (ID): You stated that prior to the hurricane that the board possessed the authority to execute its mission and deliver on the underlying mandate Congress set with PROMESA, but with the devastation, you allude that those tools may be inadequate. So please tell us why does the board currently have—does the board currently have the tools necessary to facilitate efficient and effective recovery? Natalie Jaresko: I will try to be clear. I believe the board has the tools, that PROMESA gives us the tools. That said, when there are disagreements, the use of those tools ends up in costly and time-consuming litigation. Today more than ever that time and that cost is not helping Puerto Rico, so we asked for clarity of the tools that we have—whether it is in the appointment of a CTO through Title III, whether it is the implementation of our contract-policy review, or whether or not it is the implementation of the fiscal plans in full when certified. Labrador: So, what else do you need to be successful? Is there anything else that we need to give you to be successful? Jaresko: I think we would appreciate a legislative affirmation of those and/or conditioning of appropriations on those powers as you see fit. 2:11:11 Representative Garret Graves (LA): The governor recently proposed a law to address emergencies and disasters. Part of that law would allow, basically, eliminating or waiving sales tax in Puerto Rico. Are you aware—is that proposal on your radar screen? Were you consulted? Natalie Jaresko: No, we were not consulted. And I am aware that there has been a problem because of the lack of electricity and the collections of the sales-and-use tax. However, as electricity comes back, the collection process should also return. Graves: So you were not consulted. You were not aware on the front end. If ultimately the governor certifies that this is in compliance with the fiscal plan and you determine otherwise, what happens then? How does that play out? Jaresko: Well, I would hope that they would consult prior to putting that policy in place because it is something that can have a direct adverse fiscal effect, and it could be not in compliance with the fiscal plan. If they certify that it is, as you described, then we have a situation which could potentially, again, lead to difference of opinion in terms of what our role is in PROMESA. And it is very difficult for us, once it is certified by the government as being in compliance, if we disagree, to reverse that. Graves: I’m sorry. Say that last part again. Jaresko: If the government certifies that the executive order or law is in compliance with the fiscal plan, it is difficult for us to reverse that. Graves: Your hands are effectively tied. Do you think Congress should revisit that in terms of something that you believe causes economic harm or undermines the objectives of the fiscal plan but you don’t have the ability to actually help reset that? Jaresko: I think it should be very clear that the intent of PROMESA was for us to be able to stop things that were having an adverse effect on the fiscal plan, yes. 2:26:37 Representative Luis Gutierrez (IL): Arecibo incinerator, Mr. Zamot, I would hope you would talk to Secretary Vilsack because you seem to have a different perspective than he does, since the loan from the USDA is through the Rural Utilities Services. In other words, the money is not in order to do something with waste management; the money is to create energy. But you said to us earlier—and correct me if I’m wrong, if I misunderstood—that the purpose is one of for garbage, basically, disposal, and not for energy. How do you see it? Is it garbage disposal or energy? What is the primary purpose of it? Noel Zamot: Sir, the government of Puerto Rico has a letter out, and they consider that plan in Arecibo to be both a provider of energy— Gutierrez: But when you said primarily, you said primarily. Zamot: The plan at Arecibo, where about 2% of the aggregate electrical demand— Gutierrez: Okay. So primarily, I heard you—and we can go back to the record—you said that it was primarily; yet, they are asking for a loan between half a million and 750 million dollars. And let me just assure you and everybody here: Given the fact that the government of Puerto Rico already owes over $2 billion, unless Mrs. Jaresko’s going to use some of her skills to eliminate that debt, I don’t see how we’re going to do that. And in the last 25 seconds, because I want to focus on this issue with you, do you believe that the control board has such power that you do not have to take into consideration the concerns of the duly elected mayors of the cities that will be affected by the incinerator? Or do you feel you need to consult with them before you make a decision going forward? Zamot: Sir, in 9 seconds, the statute provides for a public comment period that in conclusion— Gutierrez: So, you don’t believe. You do believe that you’re supreme. You’re kind of a dictator over everything. 2:32:05 Resident Commissioner Jenniffer Gonzalez (PR): You say that the board has the power to name a chief transformation officer to take over the management of PREPA, and at the same time, I know the state government, state legislator, the governor is against that. And you filed a motion in the court to allow that to happen. Do you have the power or you don’t have the power to actually name the coordinator board? Natalie Jaresko: Thank you. We believe we do have that power, and that’s why we filed that petition in court. We believe we have that power under Title III as any representative of a debtor, and the board is named the representative of the debtor, in the law in PROMESA, to name a chief restructuring officer, a receiver, a chief transformation officer, as we call it. Gonzalez: So, sorry to interrupt you, but then you don’t need any change in the PROMESA law? You don’t need any power to make that happen, because that’s the question this committee is doing. What do you need in terms of helping the people of Puerto Rico to recover power? I think that’s the main question. If we were a state, we will not have you. If we were a state, we will have full funding in all federal programs, and now that’s a problem all territories got. Jaresko: The board believes that in appointing this CTO will help us move more quickly to restoration of power. That is the only reason the board took this position, and they took it at this time. 2:43:30 Representative Luis Gutierrez (IL): Mayor, thank you very much for being here with us. Could you tell us your annual salary? Mayor Angel Perez Otero: My? Gutierrez: Yes. *Otero: 96,000. Gutierrez: $96,000. Mr. Zamot? What’s your annual salary? Noel Zamot: That’s a matter of— Gutierrez: I’m sorry? Zamot: Sir, that’s a matter of public record. Gutierrez: How much is it? Zamot: I think it’s in the record, sir. Gutierrez: Just—can’t you tell us how much it is? You know how much you’re getting paid. Why are you so reluctant to give us—this is a committee. Just want to know how much you’re getting paid. The mayor was very forthcoming. Zamot: The board found a competition competitive compensation of $315,000. 2:55:30 Representative Luis Gutierrez (IL): So, I’ll ask Mrs. Jaresko—I didn’t get to ask you—what’s your annual salary? Natalie Jaresko: $625,000. Gutierrez: $625,000. Music Presented in This Episode Intro & Exit: Tired of Being Lied To by David Ippolito (found on Music Alley by mevio)
There are a lot of RVs out there. And there are a lot of reasons people buy them. So the RV Lifestyle takes many different forms. In this episode, we will introduce you to a wonderful group of people we spent time with this past weekend at an informal meet-up in Waco Texas. I think you'll find it very interesting how the RV lifestyle can fulfill so many dreams and be used in so many different ways. Plus, coming up, your RV questions, RV tips, traveling tech suggestions and a great off the beaten path report. Click the player below to Listen Now or scroll down through the show note details. When you see a time code hyperlink, you can click it to jump directly to that segment of the podcast. [spp-player] Show Notes for Episode #184 March 21, 2018 of Roadtreking - The RV Podcast: WHAT MIKE AND JENNIFER ARE UP TO THIS WEEK [spp-timestamp time="2:04"] We are doing this podcast from the beautiful Texas Hill Country, specifically at the Canyon of the Eagles Nature Park on the shores of Lake Buchanan. It's called the Canyon of the Eagles because lots of bald eagles winter here each year, fishing the warm waters of the lake. We are in a beautiful campground overlooking the lake. It's just us and one other RV in the entire campground and but is so quiet and peaceful we keep extending our stay. What was to be a quick visit to the area is now on its fourth day! We posted lots of photos on the blog already and we'll talk more about this place in an off the beaten path report a little later in the podcast. But we've had a great week of traveling and have so enjoyed Texas. We spent the past weekend in Waco, Texas, a place well known to fans of the HGTV television show Fixer Upper as the home of Chip and Joanna Gaines, the stars of the show. It is unbelievable how the popularity of the show and Chip and Joanna's Magnolia branded businesses have transformed Waco. They have a bakery, they renovated two old grain Silos and turned it into a design boutique and they just opened a restaurant… that has a 2 ½ hour wait to get in. 20,000 tourists a week come to Waco… Waco is the 2nd most searched zip code on realtor.com… David Ridley, who owned ne of the homes Chip and Joanna fixed up, runs a tour bus company. This was a really, really busy weekend in Waco. Chip and Joann had their Spring celebration and they say as many as 150,000 people came from all over the country. Every hotel and RV park was supposedly booked up for 80 miles around. We also had our expert tour guide… and we want to give a big shout to David Hunt, one of our Roadtreking followers. David lives in Waco and generously gave us a our past many of the homes featured over six seasons if the TV show. Besides that, we toured the Dr. Pepper Museum and the Texas Rangers Hall of Fame. And we had an informal meet-up on Saturday with a bunch of folks who fo0llow us who live in Texas. You'll hear from some of them in a few minutes in our interview if the week segment on the podcast. We love hearing from our listeners. In fact, if you heard last week's episode, Dan Izzard, who lives in Georgetown, Texas, called in with a suggested route we travel to see bluebonnets. And That led us to the beautiful spot we are now in and will soon be talking about in our off the beaten path report. Here are some stories in the news this week of interest to RVers… National Parks considering per person charge, Interior Secretary tells Congress Too many people get into the national parks for free, U.S. Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke said before the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee last week. The National Parks Services offers free or discounted entrance to active military service members, disabled people, seniors and fourth graders. Zinke said that is too many discounts, and the cost per vehicle needs to go up or instead of charging per carload, parks need to charge per person to help bring in revenue. Family says they were locked inside a Camping World RV lot in Arizona
Exxon Mobil’s CEO is now the Secretary of State. The Koch Brothers’ Congressman is the CIA Director. We’ve already seen signs that the Trump Administration and the fossil fuel industry are merging. In this episode, hear the highlights of the confirmation hearings of the two men now most responsible for environmental law enforcement in the United States: Secretary of the Interior Ryan Zinke and Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency Scott Pruitt. Will they protect the environment from the fossil fuel industry or did President Trump appoint foxes to guard the henhouse? Please support Congressional Dish: Click here to contribute using credit card, debit card, PayPal, or Bitcoin Click here to support Congressional Dish for each episode via Patreon Mail Contributions to: 5753 Hwy 85 North #4576 Crestview, FL 32536 Thank you for supporting truly independent media! Recommended Congressional Dish Episodes CD144: Trump's War Manufacturers Additional Reading Article: Trump's EPA is reconsidering a rule that limits mercury from power plants by Samantha Page, Think Progress, April 19, 2017. Article: 'Like a slow death': families fear pesticide poisoning after Trump reverses ban by Sam Levin, The Guardian, April 17, 2017. News Release: EPA Launches Back-To-Basics Agenda at Pennsylvania Coal Mine, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, April 13, 2017. Op-Ed: Now we know Scott Pruitt isn't serious about fighting smog by Jack Lienke, Grist, April 12, 2017. Article: What's at Stake in Trump's Proposed E.P.A. Cuts by Hiroko Tabuchi, The New York Times, April 10, 2017. Article: Federal Judge Orders Supplemental EIS For Nevada Sage Grouse Plan by Richard Nemec, Natural Gas Intel, April 6, 2017. Article: E.P.A. Chief, Rejecting Agency's Science, Chooses Not to Ban Insecticide by Eric Lipton, The New York Times, March 29, 2017. Article: Herbert pushing for Interior Secretary Zinke to visit Utah and Bear Ears by Bryan Schott, UtahPolicy.com, March 27, 2017. Press Release: Interior Department Auctions Over 122,000 Acres Offshore Kitty Hawk, North Carolina for Wind Energy Development, U.S. Department of the Interior, March 16, 2017. Press Release: Secretary Zinke Issues Lease for 56 Million Tons of Coal in Central Utah, U.S. Department of the Interior, March 15, 2017. Article: Zinke pledges big changes at Department of the Interior by Rob Chaney, Missoulian, March 10, 2017. Press Release: Secretary Zinke Announces Proposed 73-Million Acre Oil and Natural Gas Lease Sale for Gulf of Mexico, U.S. Department of the Interior, March 6, 2017. Article: Fate of Bears Ears in question as Senate confirms Montana Rep. Zinke as Interior secretary by Thomas Burr, The Salt Lake Tribune, March 1, 2017. Article: Oklahoma's earthquake threat now equals California's because of man-made temblors, USGS says by Rong-Gong Lin II, The Los Angeles Times, March 1, 2017. Article: Thousands of emails detail EPA head's close ties to fossil fuel industry by Brady Dennis and Steven Mufson, The Washington Post, February 22, 2017. Article: Scott Pruitt makes it clear that the Clean Power Plan is going away by Natasha Geiling, Think Progress, February 19, 2017. Article: Utah Representative Wants Bears Ears Gone And He Wants Trump To Do It by Kirk Siegler, NPR, February 5, 2017. Article: Good Question: What Exactly Is The Dakota Access Pipeline? by Heather Brown, CBS Minnesota, January 24, 2017. Document: State of the Air 2016 by The American Lung Association Article: Obama Designates Atlantic, Artic Areas Off-Limits To Offshore Drilling by Merrit Kennedy, NPR, December 20, 2016. Article: Ryan Zinke, Donald Trump's Pick for Interior Secretary, and the Rising American Land Movements by Benjamin Wallace-Wells, The New Yorker, December 16, 2016. Press Release: Interior Department Announces Final Rule to Reduce Methane Emissions & Wasted Gas on Public, Tribal Lands, U.S. Department of the Interior, November 15, 2016. Article: Incumbent Ryan Zinke says security, jobs, health care top priorities by Holly Michels, Montana Standard, October 14, 2016. Article: Obama announces moratorium on new federal coal leases by Joby Warrick and Juliet Eilperin, The Washington Post, January 15, 2016. Article: With Only $93 Billion in Profits, the Big Five Oil Companies Demand to Keep Tax Breaks by Daniel J. Weiss and Miranda Peterson, Center for American Progress, February 10, 2014. References Encyclopedia Britannica: Deepwater Horizon oil spill of 2010 Fact Sheet: Methane and Waste Prevention Rule, US Department of the Interior U.S. Energy Information Administration: Natural Gas Overview U.S. Energy Information Administration: U.S. Energy Mapping System Environmental Protection Agency: EPA History Environmental Protection Agency: California Greenhouse Gas Waiver Request Environmental Protection Agency: Order denying petition to revoke tolerances for the pesticide chlorpyrifos GovTrack: On the Nomination PN31: Ryan Zinke, of Montana, to be Secretary of the Interior GovTrack: H.R. 5259 (114th): Certainty for States and Tribes Act Overview OpenSecrets: Sen. Lisa Murkowski - Summary OpenSecrets: Sen. Lisa Murkowski - Career Profile Sound Clip Sources Hearing: Interior Secretary Confirmation - Ryan Zinke, Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, January 17, 2017. Part 1 Part 2 Timestamps & Transcripts Part 1 42:54 Senator Lisa Murkowski: Will you commit to a formal review of all of the Obama administration’s actions that took resource-bearing lands and waters in Alaska effectively off the table, including the decisions that specifically prevented the leasing of those lands and those waters for development, and determine whether or not they can be reversed? Ryan Zinke: Yes. I think the president-elect has said that we want to be energy independent. As a former Navy Seal, I think I’ve been to 63 countries in my lifetime, and I can guarantee it is better to produce energy domestically under [missing audio] than watch it be produced overseas with no regulation. I’ve seen the consequences of what happens when you don’t have any regulation in the Middle East. We can do it right. The backbone of our environmental policies has been NEPA, and I’m a strong supporter of NEPA, but we also have to understand that we need an economy. And, look, if we don’t have an economy as a country, then the rest of it doesn’t matter, because we’re not going to be able to afford a strong military, nor are we going to be able to afford to keep the promises we’ve made as a great nation; and we’ve made a lot of promises to education, to our children’s future, to infrastructure, to Social Security; all that takes an economy that’s moving forward, and energy is a part of that economy, and Alaska is a critical part of that economy. Alaska’s different for a reason: you are blessed with great resources, you are blessed with great recreation—a little cold in the winter, but it’s not Palm Springs. Murkowski: You’re from Montana. You can handle it. Zinke: We can handle it. But, yes, I think we need to be prudent. And always, I think we need to review things to make sure we’re doing it right because over time the government keeps on getting bigger and bigger, the bureaucracy gets larger and larger, and we can’t get something done. 53:12 Senator John Hoeven: Also in North Dakota, we’ve had a real challenge with the Dakota Access Pipeline protest. You and I talked about it. State and local law enforcement has worked very hard to keep the peace and to keep people safe, but we need federal law-enforcement help as well, and so in your case, that’s going mean BIA law enforcement. And, so, my question is, if you’re confirmed, will you ensure that BIA law enforcement works with state and local law enforcement to resolve the situation, to keep people safe, and to make sure that the rule of law is followed? Ryan Zinke: Yes, sir. And we talked about it in your office, and if confirmed, I’m going to be a very busy man, travelling. I’m going to travel to Utah, travel to Alaska, and travel to North Dakota. Those are three impending problems that we need to resolve quickly. I have great respect for the Indian nations. I’m adopted Assiniboine. Last time the Sioux Nations all got together, I would say General Custer probably would say that was not a good issue. So, you look at this, and there is deep cultural ties, there is a feeling that we haven’t been a fair consultant, a fair partner, and so I think we need to listen to that voice. 57:45 Senator Bernie Sanders: President-elect Trump has suggested—more than suggested—stated in his view that climate change is a “hoax.” Now I know that you’re not here to be administrator of the EPA or secretary of the Energy, but the issue of climate change is in fact very important for issues that the Department of Interior deals with. Is President-elect Trump right? Is climate change a hoax? Ryan Zinke: I can give you—the best answer is three things: First of all, climate is changing. That’s indisputable. I’m from Glacier National Park, and I’ve seen— Sanders: You don’t have any more glaciers there, huh? Zinke: Well—and I’ve seen glaciers over the period of my time recede. Matter of fact, when my family and I have eaten lunch on Grinnell Glacier, the glacier has receded during lunch. Sanders: All right. But I have—if you could— Zinke: Yeah. Sanders: —is the president-elect right? Is climate change a hoax? Zinke: Well, if I can give you two more points— Sanders: Okay. Zinke: —I’ll make it short. The second thing is man has had an influence. I don’t think—I think that’s indisputable as well. So, climate is changing, man is an influence. I think where there’s debate on it is what that influence is, what can we do about it, and as the Department of Interior, I will inherit, if confirmed, the USGS. We have great scientists there. I’m not a climate-scientist expert, but I can tell you I will become a lot more familiar with it, and it’ll be based on objective science. I don’t believe it’s a hoax; I believe we should— Sanders: You do not believe it's a hoax. Zinke: No. I believe we should be prudent to be prudent. That means I don’t know definitively; there’s a lot of debate on both sides of the aisle— Sanders: Well, actually, there’s not a whole lot of debate now. The scientific community is virtually unanimous that climate change is real and causing devastating problems. There is the debate on this committee but not within the scientific community. 59:40 Senator Bernie Sanders: If climate change is already causing devastating problems, should we allow fossil fuel to be drilled on public lands? Ryan Zinke: Again, we need an economy and jobs, too. And I, in my experience, have probably seen 63 different countries. I’ve seen what happens when you don’t have regulated— Sanders: I’m taking your—I don’t mean to be rude, but this is not a whole lot—I’m taking your answer to be yes, we should allow fossil fuel to be drilled on public lands. Zinke: I’m an all-the-above energy, and I want to be honest with you—I’m all the above. Sanders: Will you encourage wind and solar on public lands? Zinke: I will encourage, absolutely, wind and sol—all the above. Sanders: Okay. Zinke: So I think that’s the better solution going forward is all-the-above energy. 1:00:40 Ryan Zinke: I want to be clear in this point: I am absolutely against transfer or sale of public land. 1:39:40 Senator John Barrasso: The war on coal: it is real for communities across the West, including Wyoming, including Montana; it’s devastated small towns, ultimately threatens our country’s energy security. If confirmed, will you commit to ending this moratorium on federal coal leasing? Ryan Zinke: The war on coal, I believe, is real. I have Decker, Montana, in my area, and behind me is a gentleman that works in the coal mines of the Crow Agency, which, by the way, the Crow Agency, if you were to take coal out of the picture, the unemployment rate would probably in the 90 percent. So they’re very keen on making sure they have their jobs and we give them the ability for self-determination. The moratorium, I think, was an example of many, is that one size fits all. It was a view from Washington and not a view from the states, particularly if you’re a state such as Wyoming, parts of Montana, West Virginia, where coal’s important. So overall, the president-elect has made a commitment to end “ the war on coal.” I think we should be smart on how we approach our energy. “All the above” is a correct policy. Coal is certainly a great part of our energy mix. To your point, I’m also a great believer that we should invest in the research and development, particularly on coal, because we know we have the asset. Let’s work together to make it cleaner, better. We should be leading the world in clean-energy technology, and I’m pretty confident that coal can be a part of that. 1:41:36 Senator John Barrasso: With the use of the Congressional Review Act, and I’m planning introducing a disapproval resolution on the BLM’s venting and flaring rule. To me that rule far exceeds the authority of the BLM, will ultimately put federal lands at a greater competitive disadvantage to state and private lands. Will you support our efforts to reverse this rule under the Congressional Review Act? Ryan Zinke: Yes, and I think what the driving force is is we’re venting a lot, and we’re wasting energy. And that is troubling to me, is that the amount of venting in North Dakota alone almost exceeds what we get out of the fields. So, a lot of the wasting can be approached by having an infrastructure. So let us build a system where we capture that energy that is otherwise being wasted. And that’s an enormous opportunity. It’s an enormous opportunity, our natural gas and geopolitically as well. We haven’t talked a lot about overseas, but energy is so critically important. If we want to check Russia, then let’s do it with liquid natural gas. If we want to put pressure on Iran, then let’s supplant every drop of Iranian crude. This is all part of a larger package, and it cannot be done without the great state of Wyoming and their assets, or Alaska. But we have to think globally on it, and it is better—and I’ve said this once before—but it is better to produce energy in America under reasonable regulation and get better over time than watch it be produced overseas with no regulation. That is indisputable. 1:43:23 Senator John Barrasso: And I want to talk about sage grouse management plans. The administration has ignored input from key stakeholders, including Western governors during the development of their plans, plans which were used to justify [missing audio] unwarranted status under the Endangered Species Act. But at the core, the plans fundamentally oppose the multiple-use mandates of the BLM, which includes grazing, recreation, energy development. Will you commit to returning conservation and management authority of the sage grouse back to the states in preventing this top-down mandate like this in the future? Ryan Zinke: My understanding is the sage grouse decision is going to come before the Department of Interior some time in March. I understand there’s going to be options and alternatives, proposed alternatives. I will work with you when I see those documents, and I’ll work with all of you when I see those documents, to make sure we’re doing the right thing. What concerns me about sage grouse is there’s no target number. I’m not sure how you can manage without a number. If we just grab a management of property without a number, I look at that with a suspect eye. So I think we’ve got to look at, everyone loves sage grouse, everyone understands that we have to protect the species, and generally those living in the ground are in a better position, and we should be an advocate and a partner in this rather than heavy-handed and just dictate terms, particularly when we don’t have a number. 2:33:40 Senator Mazie Hirono: In the discussion about energy, you’ve said a number of times that you support “all of the above,” which sounds really great except that in “all of the above,” what’s happened is that the fossil-fuel side of energy has gotten a lot of support over decades. So I hope that when you say “all of the above” that you will also be committed to providing more resources and support, particularly R&D for alternative and renewables, aside from, or in addition to, fossil fuels. So we need to have a more-level playing field for policies that truly reflect support for “all of the above.” Ryan Zinke: Yeah. I’ve always been a strong proponent on the record for research and development of different technologies, different innovations, different opportunities in this complete spectrum of the energy to include looking at traditional sources to make sure we’re better at doing that, you know, certainly horizontal drilling, fracking— Hirono: Yeah. Zinke: —coal. But “all the above” I think is the right approach. And when it comes out of the test tube and into fielding, energy needs to be affordable, reliable, and abundant. Part 2 12:15 Ryan Zinke: On the Gateway Pacific Terminal, what I raised my eyebrow on is I didn’t take a position, whether yes or no, on the Terminal. I took a position to make sure the NEPA process was followed and the EIS was completed before making a judgment. What I found was we were close to ending the NEPA process, with the EIS, after years and millions of dollars were spent on it, and then that was truncated and stopped by affidavits—and I didn’t judge whether the affidavits from the tribe were true or not true—if you don’t finish the NEPA process and don’t finish an EIS, and then all of a sudden that process can be interrupted and a permit can be pulled on the basis of something outside the EIS, why would you ever consent to spend millions of dollars on an EIS? That was my objection. And I don’t mean to speak for Senator Daines. Senator Maria Cantwell: So, you believe in the tribal sovereignty of the Lummi tribe to object in this case. Zinke: They certainly had every right to object as well as, in this case, the Crows, who also have a treaty obligation. 15:06 Senator Steve Daines: You have been a champion fighting on behalf of the Crow tribes, as you mentioned here in that last exchange, their sovereign right to develop their coal resources. And as you said in your testimony, the unemployment rate in Crow country will go north of 90 percent if they lose those jobs. Hearing: EPA Administrator Confirmation - Scott Pruitt, Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, January 18, 2017. Part 1 Part 2 Timestamps & Transcripts Part 1 01:30 Chairman John Barrasso: Good morning. I call this hearing to order. We have a quite a full house today. I welcome the audience. This is a formal Senate hearing, and in order to allow the committee to conduct its business, we’ll maintain decorum. That means if there are disorders, demonstrations, by a member of the audience, the person causing the disruption will be escorted from the room by the Capitol Police. 22:50: Senator Jim Inhofe: Yes, as attorney general, Scott Pruitt has fought the EPA, the Fish and Wildlife Service, the oil companies, and the out-going administration on many fronts, but all of these suits were brought to protect state and local interests from overzealous and activist executive agencies. Over the last eight years, the Obama administration has advanced a radical environmental agenda, has exhibited a deep distrust of state governments and private land owners, and has worked to obstruct the fossil-fuel industry and agriculture producers, the most-ardent protectors of the environment. 29:52 Scott Pruitt: I would lead the EPA with the following principles in mind: First, we must reject as a nation that false paradigm that if you’re pro-energy, you’re anti-environment; and if you’re pro-environment, you’re anti-energy. I really reject that narrative. In this nation we can grow our economy, harvest the resources God has blessed us with, while also being good stewards of the air, land, and water by which we’ve been favored. It is not an either-or proposition. Next, we should celebrate the great progress we’ve made as a nation since the inception of the EPA and the laws that have been passed by this body, but recognize that we have much work to do. Third, rule of law matters. Process matters. It inspires confidence in those that are regulated. The law is static, not transient. Regulators are supposed to make things regular, to fairly and equitably enforce the rules and not pick winners and losers. A regulator should not be for or against any sector of our economy; instead, a regulator ought to follow the law in setting up the rules so that those who are regulated can plan, allocate resources, to meet the standards versus operating in a state of uncertainty and duress. Fourth, federalism matters. It matters because Congress says so. And because we need to achieve good outcomes as a nation for air and water quality, we need the partnership of the states to achieve that. It is our state regulators who oftentimes best understand the local needs and the uniqueness of our environmental challenges, plus our state regulators possess the resources and expertise to enforce our environmental laws. Fifth, public participation is key. We need to hear all voices as we make decisions in behalf of our country with respect to environmental laws. 39:07 Senator Tom Carper: In 2011 the EPA required dirty coal power plants to clean up mercury and air toxic emissions by issuing the Mercury and Air Toxics Standards rule. This rule will reduce the mercury, a neurotoxin that contaminates our streams and our oceans, pollutes our fish, and harms our children’s health. As attorney general, I believe you’ve been part of at least 14 legal cases against the EPA, and at least three of these cases against the EPA’s rules, to reduce mercury emissions from power plants. Is that correct? Just yes or no. Scott Pruitt: Senator, we have been involved in litigation around the MATS rule. Carper: Is that correct? Yes or no. Pruitt: As I indicated, yes, we’ve been a part of litigation involving the MATS rule. Carper: Thank you. It’s my understanding that at least one of these cases against the mercury rule is still pending. Is that correct? Just yes or no. Pruitt: I believe so, Senator, yes. Carper: Thank you. 43:40 Senator Jim Inhofe: I’m glad you brought up this thing about the Clean Air Act. The amendments from 1990, I was one of the cosponsors, it’s been incredibly successful. I mean, you mentioned that we’ve reduced those pollutants by 63 percent, but what you didn’t add was that it is in spite of the fact that we had 153 percent increase in our economic activity. That’s a major thing. 48:52 Senator Sheldon Whitehouse: In Rhode Island, we have bad air days, and because of EPA’s work, there are fewer and fewer. A bad air day is a day when people driving into work hear on the radio that ozone from out-of-state smokestacks has made the air in Rhode Island dangerous and that infants and the elderly and people with breathing difficulties should stay home on an otherwise beautiful day. Because those smokestacks are out of state, we need EPA to protect us, and I see nothing in your record that would give a mom taking her child to the hospital for an asthma attack any comfort that you would take the slightest interest in her. And your passion for devolving power down to states doesn’t help us, because our state regulators can’t do anything about any of those problems; they all come from out-of-state sources. 49:45 Senator Sheldon Whitehouse: One of the things I’d like to ask you about here is the connection between you and some of these fossil-fuel companies. These are some of the companies that have supported you. These are some of the political organizations that you’ve raised money for. You’ve raised money for them for Pruitt for Attorney General, correct? Scott Pruitt: Yes, sir. I have a campaign committee for that, yes. Whitehouse: And Devon Energy, Koch Industries, ExxonMobil have all maxed out to that account. Pruitt: I’m not aware— Whitehouse: At various times. Pruitt: —if they maxed out or not, Senator, but I’m sure they’ve given to that committee. Whitehouse: Oklahoma Strong PAC is your leadership PAC? Pruitt: It was, yes. Whitehouse: It was? And, similarly, they gave money, they maxed out to that organization as well, which you controlled? Pruitt: I’m unsure about that, Senator. Whitehouse: Okay. But they contributed to it. Pruitt: I’m even unsure about that as well. I haven’t looked at that. Whitehouse: You closed your super PAC, Liberty 2.0, but that took fossil-fuel contributions as well, correct? Pruitt: That particular entity has been closed, yes. Whitehouse: Now, you helped raise money for the Republican Attorney General’s Association. While you were a member of its executive committee, they received $530,000 from Koch Industries, $350,000 from Murray Energy, $160,000 from ExxonMobil, and $125,000 from Devon Energy, the company whose letter you transposed onto your letterhead and sent as an Oklahoma attorney general document. 1:11:57 Senator Jeff Merkley: Over a number of years, information started pouring into EPA that the estimate of the amount of fugitive methane escaping in gas and oil drilling had been deeply underestimated. In 2011 the EPA put out its best estimates based on the information that was being presented. And this is relevant because methane is a global-warming gas, more potent than CO2. Gas companies didn’t like this because, well, it presented a vision of natural gas being more damaging environmentally than folks had previously understood. Devon Energy is one of the groups that sought to cast doubt on this scientific information, and it came to you to be their spokesperson, and they asked, will you be our mouthpiece in casting doubt and send a letter we have drafted to the EPA, and you sent that letter. And I just want to ask, first, are you aware that methane is approximately 30 times more potent than carbon dioxide as a global-warming gas? Scott Pruitt: I am, Senator. It’s— Merkley: Thank you. Pruitt: —the impact on human health— Merkley: That’s the answer. Yes. Thank you. It’s a yes-no question. And on a one to 10 scale, how concerned are you about the impacts of fugitive methane in driving global warming? Pruitt: Methane, as you indicated, has— Merkley: One to 10 scale. Highly, 10, very concerned; or one, not so concerned? Pruitt: The quantities of methane in the atmosphere compared to CO2 is less, but it’s far more potent, and it is— Merkley: Are you concerned? I’m asking about your level of concern. Pruitt: Yes, yes. Merkley: Highly concerned? Pruitt: I'm concerned. Merkley: Thank you. 1:13:34 Senator Jeff Merkley: Do you acknowledge sending this letter to the EPA in October 2011? Pruitt: Senator, that is a letter that’s on my letterhead that was sent to the EPA, yes, with respect to the issue. Merkley: You acknowledge that 97 percent of the words in that letter came directly from Devon Energy? Pruitt: I have not looked at the percentages, Senator. Merkley: The statement that’s been analyzed many times is that all of the 1,016 words, except for 37 words, were written directly by Devon Energy. Pruitt: Senator, that was a step that was taken as attorney general representing the interest of our state. Over 25 percent of our— Merkley: Yeah, so, I didn’t ask that question. I was just asking if you copied the letter virtually word for word. You have acknowledged that, yes, it’s in the record, people can count it, is correct. All right, so, a public office is about serving the public. There is a public concern over the impact of methane on global warming. There is scientific research showing that it’s far more devastating than anticipated and far more is leaking than—but you used your office as a direct extension of an oil company rather than a direct extension of the interests of the public health of the people of Oklahoma. Do you acknowledge that you presented a private oil company’s position rather than a position developed by the people of Oklahoma? Pruitt: Senator, with respect, I disagree. The efforts that I took as attorney general were representing the interests of the state of Oklahoma. Merkley: Earlier you said you— Pruitt: And there was a concern about— Merkley: No, no, excuse me. I’m asking the questions. You said earlier you listen to everyone. In drafting this letter, you took an oil company’s position, and then, without consulting people who had diverse views about the impact, you sent it off. How can you present that as representing the people of Oklahoma when you simply only consulted an oil company to push its own point of view for its private profit? Pruitt: Senator, there’s an obligation the EPA has to follow processes as established by this body. The cost-benefit analysis under Section 112 is something that they have to engage in. There was a concern about the overestimated percentages that the EPA put in the record—it was a record-based challenge—that was the expression of the letter to the EPA, and it was representing the interests of an industry in the state of Oklahoma— Merkley: Thank you. Pruitt: —not a company, an industry. Merkley: So, my question was, what other groups—environmental groups or other groups—did you consult so that you had that full perspective before representing simply a for-profit oil company using your official office and your official letterhead? Pruitt: There—I consulted with other environmental officials in Oklahoma that regulate that industry and learned from them with respect to the concerns about the estimates that were provided by the EPA. Merkley: Can you provide this committee with information showing who you consulted in representing this letter specifically for Devon Energy, because the information that’s in the public realm only shows that they simply sent you a letter, asked you to send it, and you sent it without questions. Pruitt: We have seven or so individuals in our office that are involved in these kinds of issues, and we will collect the information they have and provide it to this body pursuant to the chairman’s direction. Merkley: Your staff expanded substantially while you were in charge, to 251 staff members. Why do you need an outside oil company to draft a letter when you have 250 people working for you? Pruitt: Senator, as I’ve indicated, that was an effort that was protecting the state’s interest in making sure that we made the voices of all Oklahomans heard on a very important industry to our state. Merkley: You said that all heard, but you only sent it on behalf of a single voice: the oil company. Pruitt: That— Merkley: Thank you. 1:24:11 Senator Cory Booker: You’ve joined or filed 14 lawsuits against the EPA, challenging clean air and clean-water rules, yes? Scott Pruitt: We’ve been involved in multiple pieces of litigation, Senator. Booker: Yeah, but I’m looking at specifically 14, and, Mr. Chairman, I’d like to put those 14 lawsuits into the record, of where you specifically challenged the EPA on air quality. And let me just go through some of those. Chairman Barrasso: Without objection. Booker: Thank you, sir. To refresh your recollection, you filed two lawsuits challenging the EPA Mercury and Air Toxics Standards; you filed a lawsuit challenging the EPA’s 2015 National Ambient Air Quality Standards for ozone; you filed four lawsuits challenging the EPA’s Clean Power Plan; you have sued to challenge the EPA’s 111(b) standards for carbon dioxide emissions from new power plants; and you also sued to challenge the EPA’s Federal Implementation Plan for Oklahoma under the Regional Haze rule. You’re familiar with those, I imagine. Pruitt: Yes, Senator. Booker: And you filed a lawsuit challenging the EPA Cross-State Air Pollution Rule, something in New Jersey we’re very concerned with. And are you aware that that Rule, which you lost in that suit, scientists estimate that that alone prevents 400,000 asthma attacks nationally each year? Are you aware or those estimations? Pruitt: Yes, Your Honor. Or, yes, Senator. May I offer— Booker: I appreciate your promotion to judge. Let me continue, Mr. Pruitt. I don’t have that much time. Pruitt: Okay. Booker: So, each of these lawsuits that I just went through and that we analyzed, all of them challenge attempts by the EPA to reduce air pollution. In all of them except one you filed those lawsuits, joining with polluting companies that were also suing the EPA. And, so, in addition to filing those lawsuits with some of the polluting companies, or at least one that has now been specifically mentioned by two of my colleagues, you used substantial portions of the letters from those companies, put them on your official attorney general letterhead; and what was sort of surprising to me is that when you’ve been asked about this in the public, you basically represented that, “That’s actually called representative government in my view of the world.” Your testimony here says that you were representing industry; you were representing the polluters. And, so, with all of these lawsuits you filed, and with all of these letters like this one written to the EPA, on behalf of the industries that are causing the pollution, it seems clear to me that obviously the fact pattern on representing polluters is clear, that you worked very hard on behalf of these industries that have their profits externalized, negative externalities are their pollution. And, so, I just have a question for you specifically about the children of Oklahoma. Do you know how many kids in Oklahoma, roughly, have asthma? Pruitt: I do not, Senator. Booker: Well, according to the data published by the very non-partisan group, the American Lung Association, more than 111,000 children in Oklahoma, which is more than 10 percent, more than one in 10 of all the kids in Oklahoma, have asthma. That’s one of the highest asthma rates in the entire United States of America. Now, this is a crisis—similar data, for where I was mayor—and I can tell you firsthand the devastating impacts that asthma has on children and families: affecting their economic well-being; parents who have to watch their children struggle to breathe; people that have to miss work, rushing their kids to the hospital. One in 10 kids having a disease, missing school, is a significant problem. And so if you’ve been writing letters on behalf of polluting industries, I want to ask you, how many letters did you write to the EPA about this health crisis? If this is representative government, did you represent those children? I want to know what actions you’ve taken in the past six years in your capacity as protector of the welfare of Oklahoma citizens to protect the welfare of those 111,000 children. Did you ever let any of them write letters on your letterhead to the EPA, and did you even file one lawsuit—one lawsuit—on behalf of those kids to reduce the air pollution in your state and help them to have a healthy life? Pruitt: Senator, I’ve actually provided a list of cases to the chairman with respect to enforcement steps we’ve taken in multiple pieces of environmental litigation, but let me say to you, with respect to Cross-State Air Pollution and some of the cases you referred to, the state has to have an interest before it can bring those cases, as you know. You can’t just bring a lawsuit if you don’t have standing, if there’s not been some injury to the state of Oklahoma. In each of those cases, the court determined that there was a state interest— Booker: My time has expired, but if I could just say, injury, clearly asthma is triggered and caused by air pollutants. Clearly there is an air pollution problem, and the fact that you have not brought suits in any of the levels which you’ve represented the industries that are causing the pollution is really problematic when you’re going to sit in a position that is nationally supposed to be affecting this reality. And asthma in our country is the number one reason why children in America, health reason, why children in America miss school. 1:37:28 Senator Ed Markey: Eight of those cases are still ongoing, including your litigation that challenges critical rules that reduce levels of hazardous smog, mercury, and carbon pollution. As EPA administrator, you would be in a position to serve as plaintiff, defendant, judge, and jury on these ongoing eight lawsuits, and that would be wrong. In your ethics agreement, you have said that you would not participate in any matter that is ongoing litigation within one year, but, Mr. Pruitt, isn’t it correct that these lawsuits may very well continue for much longer than one year? Scott Pruitt: Well, Senator, I have the letter from the ethics counsel at the EPA, and the one-year time period is intended to address covered entities, entities that I served in a chairmanship or an officer capacity. The Southern Theological Seminary, the Windows Ministry, those entities are covered entities. So if there is a matter that arises before the EPA within a one-year period, a particular matter, a specific case that involves those entities, then the recusal would be in order. But that’s really the focus of the one-year timeline. Markey: So, will you agree to recuse yourself from those lawsuits which you brought as the attorney general of Oklahoma against the EPA, not just for one year, but for the entirety of the time that you are the administrator of the EPA? Will you commit to doing that? Pruitt: Senator, for clarity, I think that it’s important to note that the one-year time period, again, is for those covered entities that were highlighted in the EPA letter. With respect to pending litigation, the EPA ethics counsel has indicated, with respect to particular matters and specific parties, there will be an opportunity to get counsel from the EPA at that point to determine what steps could be taken to avoid appearances of impropriety. Markey: So, you will not recu—are you saying that you will not recuse yourself from the actual matters which you’re suing the EPA on right now as attorney general of Oklahoma for the time that you are the head of the EPA? Pruitt: I’m not saying that at all, Senator. Markey: You are saying that. Will you recuse yourself? Pruitt: I’m saying that the EPA ethics counsel has indicated those cases will require a review by the EPA ethics counsel, and if it involves a particular matter with a specific party, then recusal would potentially be in order, and I would follow the guidance and counsel of EPA ethics. Markey: I just think this is—this is a clear line for the American public, given your record from Oklahoma in suing the EPA on all of these matters, that if you don’t agree to recuse yourself, then, again, you become plaintiff, defendant, judge, and jury on the cases that you’re bringing right now as attorney general of Oklahoma against the EPA; and the EPA is for all of the people of the United States, not just the fossil-fuel industry of Oklahoma. So you’re not committing—and I think that’s a big mistake, Mr. Pruitt—to recuse yourself from those cases. It is critical. 2:19:49 Senator Kirsten Gillibrand: I’ve looked at your record. Most of the lawsuits you filed as attorney general were related to businesses, specifically what was important for your state in terms of employers and businesses, and the few lawsuits you did file about human safety were few and far between, but this role as head of the EPA, you’re going to have a much more important role to play. And I want to talk specifically about mercury. If you believe that mercury is a threat to public health but oppose the remedy of reducing mercury air pollution from power plants because it’s too costly, what, then, do you think you should do or what should be done to address the mercury pollution? Scott Pruitt: Let me say, Senator, mercury is something—it is a hazardous air pollutant under Section 112. It is something that the EPA has authority to regulate and should regulate. It should do so, though, within the framework established by this body, and the Supreme Court said that the EPA did not follow the cost-benefit obligations. It’s not that the benefits outweigh the costs, it’s just that they simply didn’t engage in a proper record-based support for their rule. And so that goes back to earlier questions with other senators about the process mattering, being committed to the rule of law and the rulemaking authority that Congress has given the EPA in making sure that as rules are passed, that they can be upheld in court. Gillibrand: But, I need you also to be worried about human health. I understand there’s a cost, but when you’re talking about lives, when you’re talking about children who can’t breathe—I’ve been to the emergency room at two in the morning with a child who can’t breathe; it’s a horrible thing. We’ve had children die in New York City because none of their teachers, no administrators in the schools knew what to do when a child has an asthma attack. It’s a huge problem. So I need you to care about human health and really believe that the cost, when human health is at risk, when people are dying, is far higher than it is the cost to that polluter to clean up the air and change their processes. I need you to feel it as if your children sitting behind you are the ones in the emergency room. I need you to know it. 2:31:32 Senator Bernie Sanders: And I apologize for being late, but we were at a hearing with Congressman Price, who is the nominee for HHS, and perhaps not a great idea to have important nominating hearings at exactly the same time. 2:33:30 Scott Pruitt: I believe the ability to measure with precision the degree of human activity’s impact on the climate is subject to more debate on whether the climate is changing or the human activity contributes to it. Senator Bernie Sanders: While you are not certain, the vast majority of scientists are telling us that if we do not get our act together and transform our energy system away from fossil fuel, there is a real question as to the quality of the planet that we are going to be leaving our children and our grandchildren. So, you are applying for a job as administrator for the EPA to protect our environment; overwhelming majority of scientists say we have got to act boldly, and you are telling me that there needs to be more debate on this issue and that we should not be acting boldly. Pruitt: No, Senator. As I’ve indicated, the climate is changing, and human activity impacts that. Sanders: But you haven’t told me why you think the climate is changing. Pruitt: Well, Senator, the job of the administrator is to carry out the statutes as passed by this body and to _ Sanders: Why is the climate changing? Pruitt: Senator, in response to the CO2 issue, the EPA administrator is constrained by statutes Sanders: I'm asking you a personal opinion. Pruitt: My personal opinion is immaterial— Sanders: Really?! Pruitt: —to the job of carrying out— Sanders: You are going to be the head of the agency to protect the environment, and your personal feelings about whether climate change is caused by human activity and carbon emissions is immaterial? Pruitt: Senator, I’ve acknowledged to you that the human activity impacts the climate. Sanders: Impacts. Pruitt: Yes. Sanders: Scientific community doesn’t tell us it impacts; they say it is the cause of climate change, we have to transform our energy system. Do you believe we have to transform our energy system in order to protect the planet for future generations? Pruitt: I believe the EPA has a very important role at regulating the emissions of CO2. Sanders: You didn’t answer my question. Do you believe we have to transform our energy system away from fossil fuel, to do what the scientific community is telling us, in order to make sure that this planet is healthy for our children and grandchildren? Pruitt: Senator, I believe that the administrator has a very important role to perform in regulating CO2. Sanders: Can you tell me, as I think all of us know, Oklahoma has been subjected to a record-breaking number of earthquakes. Scientists say that Oklahoma is almost certain to have more earthquakes, with heightened risk of a large quake, probable to endure for a decade and that the cause of this is fracking. Can you point me—picking up on Senator Harris’s discussion with you, can you point me to any opinion that you wrote, any enforcement actions you took, against the companies that were injecting waste fracking water? Pruitt: Senator, let me say I’m very concerned about the connection between activity in Oklahoma and- Sanders: And, therefore, you must have taken action, I guess. Can you tell me who you fined for doing this, if you are very concerned? Pruitt: The Corporation Commission in Oklahoma is vested with the jurisdiction, and they have actually acted on that. Sanders: And you have made public statements expressing your deep concern about this. Pruitt: We have worked with, through our- Sanders: You have made public statements. You’re in a state which is seeing a record-breaking number of earthquakes. You’re the attorney general. Obviously, you have stood up and said you will do everything you can to stop future earthquakes as a result of fracking. Pruitt: Senator, I’ve acknowledged that I’m concerned about the- Sanders: You acknowledged that you are concerned. Pruitt: Yes. Sanders: Your state is having a record number of—well, if that’s the kind of administrator for the EPA—your state’s having a record-breaking number of earthquakes, you acknowledge you are concerned; if that’s the kind of EPA administrator you will be, you are not going to get my vote. 2:37:43 Senator John Barrasso: I want to talk about some of the concerns I have with overregulation, and I’ll ask, do you have the same concerns with the overregulation of U.S. manufacturing over the last eight years? I believe we’ve _____(00:08) exported manufacturing jobs overseas, jobs that go with them in terms of the manufacturing of those goods to places like China and India that are going to produce those products in a less environmentally friendly way. And do you agree with this notion that this approach harms not just the environment, but also our own U.S. economy? Pruitt I believe, Senator, that it puts us in an economic disadvantage when we don’t hear all voices in the rulemaking process with respect to these issues, absolutely. Part 2 17:04 Senator Sheldon Whitehouse: Let me just ask you this as a hypothetical: if you had raised significant amounts of money for the Rule of Law Defense Fund from corporations who will be subject to EPA’s regulation, before EPA, with matters before EPA, might that place you in a conflict of interest? Scott Pruitt: The EPA ethics counsel has said—and by the way, these are career individuals as you know, Senator. Justina Fugh is a career person at EPA ethics, and so as they’ve reviewed these potential conflicts, I’ve disclosed all entities I’ve been affiliated with. Whitehouse: I understand that, but I’m asking you if you think it might place you in a conflict of interest, because we both understand that the ethics rules that the EPA’s enforcing predate Citizens United, predate dark money, and they’ve said in the letter that they aren’t even looking at that because they don’t have the authority to. That doesn’t mean it’s not a conflict of interest; it means that the regulatory authority on government ethics hasn’t caught up with this post-Citizens United, dark-money world. Pruitt: I think— Whitehouse: My question is, you’re a lawyer, you know conflicts of interest, you’ve been an attorney general, might it be a conflict of interest, within your definition of the term, if you had raised significant amounts of money for this Rule of Law Defense Fund and they’ll have business before EPA with you? Is that a potential conflict of interest? Pruitt: I think Justina Fugh actually did address those entities to the degree that I was never an officer of the super PAC that you referred to earlier, the Liberty 2.0, and so they looked at those entities to determine— Whitehouse: The question was fund raising. Pruitt: They looked at those entities— Whitehouse: That’s the question we don’t have any answers on is what you raised. Pruitt: They looked at those entities to determine what the nature of my relationship was and then indicated that those would have to be evaluated in the future as cases arose, and— Whitehouse: Right now, the chairman asked you a question which is, are there matters that might place you in a conflict of interest that you have not disclosed? You answered no. Might not having raised significant money—let’s say $1 million, let’s say you made a call to Devon Energy and said, I did you letter for you, RAGA needs a lot of money, we’ve got this dark-money thing where we can launder your identity clean off it, and the money will go into RAGA, I need a million bucks out of you—might that not create a conflict of interest for you if that were the facts? Pruitt: Ms. Fugh has indicated in her letter to me—again, these are career individuals at EPA ethics—that if particular matters involving specific parties arise in the future, it will be evaluated at that point, but I want to call into account— Whitehouse: But how will they know if you’re not willing to disclose that you raised the hypothetical million dollars from Devon Energy? Pruitt: Well, those aren’t even covered entities under her letter at this point. Whitehouse: That's my point. Pruitt: But it’s factual— Whitehouse: But that may very well create a conflict of interest, mightn’t it? Pruitt: Senator, I did not serve in an office or capacity at that entity. In fact, I was not [unclear] in any way— Whitehouse: You’ve said that already, too, but that also is not the question. The question is a very simple one: did you raise money for the Rule of Law Defense Fund from entities that will appear before EPA as potential defendants in subjects of regulation, and if so, how much, and what did you tell them, and what did you ask? It seems to me that’s not an unusual or— Pruitt: The Rule of Law Defense Fund, according to Ms. Fugh, would need to be a party in the future for that to be an issue. That’s what she’s indicated in her letter to me. Whitehouse: So— Pruitt: At the time— Whitehouse: So let me— Pruitt: —if issues arise in the future, I will seek the counsel of EPA ethics and follow the advice of those career folks to make a decision and recuse if necessary. That is— Whitehouse: But at this point— Pruitt: —something I commit to doing. Whitehouse: At this point, what I deduce from your statement is that if that set of hypothetical facts were true, if you had raised a million dollars from a big energy corporation to go through the Rule of Law Defense Fund to support your efforts at RAGA, that that is not something anybody should care about, even if that corporation is before you at EPA and subject to your regulation at EPA. Pruitt: Well, I think something that, if presented in the future, Justina Fugh and myself, EPA ethics would evaluate that, and I would take the appropriate steps to recuse if they told me to do so. Whitehouse: But how would it be presented in the future if you’re not willing to present it now? Pruitt: If there’s a matter— Whitehouse: Why does it matter in the future and not now? Pruitt: If there’s a matter or cast that comes before the EPA’s authority, that would be something. There’s ongoing—as you know, Senator, Ms. Fugh indicated this in her letter—there’s ongoing obligations that I will have, if confirmed as administrator, to bring those kinds of matters to attention of EPA ethics. Whitehouse: Well, for what it’s worth, I think that the Senate has a role in policing this as well, that the whole purpose of advice and consent and the reason there are these government ethics filings is so we can look at this exact question, and the fact that they haven’t been updated to take into account dark money and all these big political organizations that have been created with dark money doesn’t take away our Senate obligation to find out what conflicts of interest you will bring to the position of administrator. And it gives me very little comfort that you’re not willing to answer those questions here. My time has expired. I’ll continue in other rounds. 1:07:50 Senator Ed Markey: Do you support the current California waiver for greenhouse gas standards? Scott Pruitt: Senator, that’s what would be evaluated, and I think it’s very difficult, and we shouldn’t prejudge the outcome in that regard if confirmed as administrator. Markey: So you’re questioning the current waiver. You don’t think they’re entitled to the current waiver. Pruitt: Well, the waiver is something that’s granted on an annual basis, and the administrator would be responsible for making that decision. Markey: Yeah. And so you say you’re going to review it. Pruitt: Yes, Senator. Markey: Yeah. And when you say review, I hear undo the rights of the states, and I think to a certain extent that it’s troublesome because, obviously, what we’ve heard all day is how much you support states’ rights when it comes to these issues, but now when it comes to the right of California or Massachusetts and other states to be able to reduce carbon pollution, you’re saying you’re going to review that. So my problem really goes to this double standard that is created that when you sue from the Oklahoma perspective, from the oil and gas industry perspective, and you represent Oklahoma, you say they have a right to do what they want to do in the state of Oklahoma. But when it comes to Massachusetts or it comes to California, and it comes to the question of those states wanting to increase their protection for the environment, protect their victimization from carbon pollution, you say there you’re going to review. 1:51:58 Senator Jim Inhofe: The cost of regulations: as you know, the Supreme Court overturned the EPA’s Mercury and Air Toxics—that’s MATS—rule in 2015 because the EPA failed to—ignored the fact that the cost was $9.6 billion annually of the rule. Now, in fact, the EPA’s regularly issued rules over the past eight years that are very costly for our industries and our job creators. According to the CRS—now, CRS, when they make an evaluation, are much more conservative, the figure is always a very conservative figure, but they said the Clean Power Plan would be at least $5 billion to $8 billion a year. The figures I’ve heard on that are far greater because it wouldn’t be that much different than the old systems that they tried to do through legislation: the methane standards on oil and gas facilities, $315 million a year; the new ozone standards, $1.4 billion; the 2015 coal ash standards, $587 million a year; and the 2011 sulfur dioxide standards, $1.5 billion a year. Now, when you hear this, all this money is being spent on compliance costs by our job creators, people out there that are working for a living, and they’re hiring people. What are you thoughts, and what do you believe should be the role of the costs of EPA’s decision making? Pruitt: I think it’s very important in the rule-making process, Senator, and the Supreme Court and courts have recognized that very important factor. 1:54:46 Senator Sheldon Whitehouse: We have been talking about fundraising done by you for the Rule of Law Defense Fund during the time when you were both a board member and for a full year the chairman of the Rule of Law Defense Fund and the fact that we have exactly zero information in this committee about that fundraising. We also have zero—and let me ask unanimous consent for the page from— Chairman Barrasso: Without objection. Whitehouse: —the filing that discloses that he was in fact a member of the board of directors and chairman of the Rule of Law Defense Fund. We also have a meeting agenda from the Republican Attorney Generals Association during a time that you were executive committee member of the Republican Attorney Generals Association meeting at The Greenbrier, which I’ll stipulate for my friend from West Virginia is a lovely place to go, and the agenda, which I’d like to take this page of and put into the record, mentions a private meeting with Murray Energy. It mentions a private meeting with Southern Company. It mentions a private meeting with the American Fuel Petrochemical Manufacturers. If you’ll show the graphic, these are all the same groups that I’d been asking about in terms of your fundraising for the Rule of Law Defense Fund, and there’s Murray Energy, and there’s Southern Company, and I’m sure the American Fuel Petrochemical Manufacturers represent a lot of the others. As I understand it, we know nothing—no minutes, no statements, no reports—about what took place in those meetings that are described as private meetings on a sheet that is stamped “confidential.” Correct? We know nothing about the content of those meetings. Scott Pruitt: Senator, I didn’t generate the document. I know nothing about how that document got generated or what— Whitehouse: Are you denying that those private meetings took place? Pruitt: No, Senator. I just didn’t generate the document and don’t know about the content other than what you’ve represented. Whitehouse: Okay. And we don’t know. And because you were on the executive committee of RAGA, that’s information that we could get, right? I mean, it’s available, if there were minutes or reports out of those meetings, notes taken; but we don’t have them, correct? Pruitt: Senator, that would be a request made to the Republican Attorney Generals Association. And I might add, the Republican Attorney Generals Association, there’s a Democrat Attorney Generals Association as well. 1:59:43 Senator Sheldon Whitehouse: Given how many of these groups have important financial interests before the EPA, do you not think that 3,000 emails back and forth between you and your office and them are relevant to potential conflict of interest as an administrator and should be before us as we consider this? Scott Pruitt: Again, I think the EPA ethics council has put out a very clear process with respect to covered entities, as we described earlier, and on particular matters and specific cases, I will follow advice of that EPA career person, ethics, to make sure that there are recusing [unclear]— Whitehouse: You keep saying that, but the problem is— Chairman Barrasso: The senator’s time has expired. Whitehouse: Will you finish my sentence? Barrasso: Please do. Whitehouse: The problem with that is that if you haven’t disclosed any of this information, then the EPA ethics council would have no idea to even look. They would have no idea what the risks are. You can’t say, nobody can look at whether I did this, but by the way, they’re going to look at it. It just doesn’t add up. 2:12:30 Senator Jeff Merkley: Ten years ago we were talking about models that led to the conversation Senator Inhofe had about Climategate, about wrestling with assumptions and models. We don’t need models now; we have facts on the ground: the moose are dying because the ticks aren’t being killed by the winter being cold enough, the fish are migrating on the Atlantic coast, and Maine’s losing its lobsters to Canada. These facts on the ground are extraordinarily real, they have a huge economic impact, and shouldn’t we take a very serious approach to the urgency of this problem as we see it descending upon us? Scott Pruitt: Senator, I think the EPA—and if confirmed [missing audio] and obligation to deal with the issue. The Massachusetts v. EPA case says that CO2 is a pollutant under the Clean Air Act, and as such, that’s what generated the 2009 endangerment finding. So I think there is a legal obligation presently for the EPA administrator to respond to the CO2 issue through proper regulations. Cover Art Design by Only Child Imaginations
On this week's Capitol Crude, Platts senior editors Brian Scheid and Herman Wang slide tackle their way into the bipartisan, comprehensive US energy bill passed out of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee last week. The bill is expected to be the first major US energy policy bill out...
Senator Lisa Murkowski is the featured guest on this week's Capitol Crude, as Platts senior editors Brian Scheid and Herman Wang interview the Alaska Republican and chairwoman of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee about her efforts to lift the US' longstanding restrictions on crude...
Jack Gerard is the CEO of the American Petroleum Institute. He joins the podcast to discuss the economic impacts of the predicted capital investments in oil and natural gas. He also gives his outlook on the oil & gas industry in 2014 and beyond. Gerard explains how the latest oil numbers affect jobs. He dissects whether the Obama energy agenda is that of "command and control", and if the U.S. is becoming self-reliant? Gerard finally addresses the myths about prices at the pump being controlled by market factors out of the oil industry's control. Find out more about the American Petroleum Institute at www.api.org. Jack N. Gerard is president and CEO of the American Petroleum Institute, the national trade association that represents all aspects of America's oil and natural gas industry. Gerard has led API since November 2008, expanding its membership and influence in all 50 states and globally, adding offices in Dubai and Singapore to its operations in Beijing, enabling API to better inform the public and policymakers on important energy issues. API's Washington presence is the foundation for the oil and natural gas industry's advocacy and outreach at state, federal and global levels on public policy, standards and certification programs, and as the source for information on industry best practices. Gerard is recognized by numerous publications and his peers as one of Washington's most influential advocates. Washington Life magazine named him one of the city's "Power 100" and a Fortune magazine profile said Gerard's effort to build a 50-state advocacy network for the oil and natural gas industry was "showing signs of success" through its outreach to workers and non-traditional allies. Prior to joining API, Gerard served as president and CEO of the American Chemistry Council, and earlier held the same position at the National Mining Association. Gerard also spent close to a decade working in the U.S. Senate and House. He came to Washington in 1981, and worked for Rep. George Hansen. He also worked for Sen. James A. McClure, who chaired the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee. Sen. McClure retired in 1990, and Gerard joined him in founding McClure, Gerard & Neuenschwander, Inc., a Washington, D.C.-based government relations consulting firm. Gerard served as Chairman and Chief Executive officer and focused on issues such as international sports, telecommunications, energy and mining. He serves as a board member and is a past chairman of the National Capital Area Council - Boy Scouts of America, is a board member and former chair of The George Washington University's Graduate School of Political Management, is chairman of the board of directors for the Congressional Coalition on Adoption Institute, and is a member of the Conservation Fund's Corporate Council. As the industry's national trade association, API has over 500 members. They range from the largest major oil company to the smallest of independents and represent all segments of the industry. Gerard was born and grew up in Idaho. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and a Juris Doctor from George Washington University. Gerard lives in Virginia with his wife, Claudette, and their eight children, including twin boys the family adopted from Guatemala.
Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee Hearings on Puerto Rico Status held August 1, 2013.Music: Apollo 440 ''Crazee Horese '' The Mars Volta ''L'Via L'Viaquez''' Robi Draco Rosa ''Luchar Por Ella'' The Express Local ''The Annexation of Puerto Rico'' Coheed and Cambria ''The Hard Sell.''
After Dr. Don Easterbrook testified before the Senate Energy, Environment & Telecommunications Committee regarding climate change, the scientific community - including faculty at Western Washington University - ran character assassination pieces about him in Associated Press. Dr. Easterbrook and astrophysicist Dr. Gordon Fulks present a whole systems approach to understanding climate change, and discuss the difference between data and dogma.
The CSIS Energy and National Security Program hosted the final session in its Impacts of the Gulf Oil Spill Series, which evaluated the development of Arctic oil and gas resources. The oil and gas resources of the Arctic region represent one of the most promising, largely untapped hydrocarbon resources in the world. A 2008 U.S. Geological Survey study estimated the recoverable oil resources of the Arctic region at 90 billion barrels, about 13 percent of the world’s remaining oil resources and the gas resource at 1,670 trillion cubic feet, about 30 percent of the world’s remaining gas resource. These oil and gas resources are located throughout the Arctic region and each of the five Arctic nations has prospective areas. However, the development of these oil and gas resources faces a number of daunting issues. The conference examined several key issue areas including: the state of play in development plans and activities in each of the Arctic countries, oil spill risks, and the possibilities for international cooperation to reduce the risk of major accidents and contain accidents that do occur. Panel Discussions covered: Development and Infrastructure Options in Alaska's Arctic and Market Challenges International Arctic Resource Developments and Opportunities Environmental Challenges for Arctic DevelopmentSpeakers include:Senator Lisa Murkowski, Senior Republican Member, U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources CommitteeDavid J. Hayes, Deputy Secretary, U.S. Department of the InteriorFrances Ulmer, Chair, U.S. Arctic Research Commission A detailed agenda is available on the righthand side of the page.
The CSIS Energy and National Security Program hosted the final session in its Impacts of the Gulf Oil Spill Series, which evaluated the development of Arctic oil and gas resources. The oil and gas resources of the Arctic region represent one of the most promising, largely untapped hydrocarbon resources in the world. A 2008 U.S. Geological Survey study estimated the recoverable oil resources of the Arctic region at 90 billion barrels, about 13 percent of the world’s remaining oil resources and the gas resource at 1,670 trillion cubic feet, about 30 percent of the world’s remaining gas resource. These oil and gas resources are located throughout the Arctic region and each of the five Arctic nations has prospective areas. However, the development of these oil and gas resources faces a number of daunting issues. The conference examined several key issue areas including: the state of play in development plans and activities in each of the Arctic countries, oil spill risks, and the possibilities for international cooperation to reduce the risk of major accidents and contain accidents that do occur. Panel Discussions covered: Development and Infrastructure Options in Alaska's Arctic and Market Challenges International Arctic Resource Developments and Opportunities Environmental Challenges for Arctic DevelopmentSpeakers include:Senator Lisa Murkowski, Senior Republican Member, U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources CommitteeDavid J. Hayes, Deputy Secretary, U.S. Department of the InteriorFrances Ulmer, Chair, U.S. Arctic Research Commission A detailed agenda is available on the righthand side of the page.
The CSIS Energy and National Security Program hosted the final session in its Impacts of the Gulf Oil Spill Series, which evaluated the development of Arctic oil and gas resources. The oil and gas resources of the Arctic region represent one of the most promising, largely untapped hydrocarbon resources in the world. A 2008 U.S. Geological Survey study estimated the recoverable oil resources of the Arctic region at 90 billion barrels, about 13 percent of the world’s remaining oil resources and the gas resource at 1,670 trillion cubic feet, about 30 percent of the world’s remaining gas resource. These oil and gas resources are located throughout the Arctic region and each of the five Arctic nations has prospective areas. However, the development of these oil and gas resources faces a number of daunting issues. The conference examined several key issue areas including: the state of play in development plans and activities in each of the Arctic countries, oil spill risks, and the possibilities for international cooperation to reduce the risk of major accidents and contain accidents that do occur. Panel Discussions covered: Development and Infrastructure Options in Alaska's Arctic and Market Challenges International Arctic Resource Developments and Opportunities Environmental Challenges for Arctic DevelopmentSpeakers include:Senator Lisa Murkowski, Senior Republican Member, U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources CommitteeDavid J. Hayes, Deputy Secretary, U.S. Department of the InteriorFrances Ulmer, Chair, U.S. Arctic Research Commission A detailed agenda is available on the righthand side of the page.
The CSIS Energy and National Security Program hosted the final session in its Impacts of the Gulf Oil Spill Series, which evaluated the development of Arctic oil and gas resources. The oil and gas resources of the Arctic region represent one of the most promising, largely untapped hydrocarbon resources in the world. A 2008 U.S. Geological Survey study estimated the recoverable oil resources of the Arctic region at 90 billion barrels, about 13 percent of the world’s remaining oil resources and the gas resource at 1,670 trillion cubic feet, about 30 percent of the world’s remaining gas resource. These oil and gas resources are located throughout the Arctic region and each of the five Arctic nations has prospective areas. However, the development of these oil and gas resources faces a number of daunting issues. The conference examined several key issue areas including: the state of play in development plans and activities in each of the Arctic countries, oil spill risks, and the possibilities for international cooperation to reduce the risk of major accidents and contain accidents that do occur. Panel Discussions covered: Development and Infrastructure Options in Alaska's Arctic and Market Challenges International Arctic Resource Developments and Opportunities Environmental Challenges for Arctic DevelopmentSpeakers include:Senator Lisa Murkowski, Senior Republican Member, U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources CommitteeDavid J. Hayes, Deputy Secretary, U.S. Department of the InteriorFrances Ulmer, Chair, U.S. Arctic Research Commission A detailed agenda is available on the righthand side of the page.
The CSIS Energy and National Security Program hosted the final session in its Impacts of the Gulf Oil Spill Series, which evaluated the development of Arctic oil and gas resources. The oil and gas resources of the Arctic region represent one of the most promising, largely untapped hydrocarbon resources in the world. A 2008 U.S. Geological Survey study estimated the recoverable oil resources of the Arctic region at 90 billion barrels, about 13 percent of the world’s remaining oil resources and the gas resource at 1,670 trillion cubic feet, about 30 percent of the world’s remaining gas resource. These oil and gas resources are located throughout the Arctic region and each of the five Arctic nations has prospective areas. However, the development of these oil and gas resources faces a number of daunting issues. The conference examined several key issue areas including: the state of play in development plans and activities in each of the Arctic countries, oil spill risks, and the possibilities for international cooperation to reduce the risk of major accidents and contain accidents that do occur. Panel Discussions covered: Development and Infrastructure Options in Alaska's Arctic and Market Challenges International Arctic Resource Developments and Opportunities Environmental Challenges for Arctic DevelopmentSpeakers include:Senator Lisa Murkowski, Senior Republican Member, U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources CommitteeDavid J. Hayes, Deputy Secretary, U.S. Department of the InteriorFrances Ulmer, Chair, U.S. Arctic Research Commission A detailed agenda is available on the righthand side of the page.
The CSIS Energy and National Security Program hosted the final session in its Impacts of the Gulf Oil Spill Series, which evaluated the development of Arctic oil and gas resources. The oil and gas resources of the Arctic region represent one of the most promising, largely untapped hydrocarbon resources in the world. A 2008 U.S. Geological Survey study estimated the recoverable oil resources of the Arctic region at 90 billion barrels, about 13 percent of the world’s remaining oil resources and the gas resource at 1,670 trillion cubic feet, about 30 percent of the world’s remaining gas resource. These oil and gas resources are located throughout the Arctic region and each of the five Arctic nations has prospective areas. However, the development of these oil and gas resources faces a number of daunting issues. The conference examined several key issue areas including: the state of play in development plans and activities in each of the Arctic countries, oil spill risks, and the possibilities for international cooperation to reduce the risk of major accidents and contain accidents that do occur. Panel Discussions covered: Development and Infrastructure Options in Alaska's Arctic and Market Challenges International Arctic Resource Developments and Opportunities Environmental Challenges for Arctic DevelopmentSpeakers include:Senator Lisa Murkowski, Senior Republican Member, U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources CommitteeDavid J. Hayes, Deputy Secretary, U.S. Department of the InteriorFrances Ulmer, Chair, U.S. Arctic Research Commission A detailed agenda is available on the righthand side of the page.
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