Westmoreland Review

Chief Deputy Whip Guy Reschenthaler (R-PA) and his colleagues, Representatives Dan Meuser (R-PA) and Lloyd Smucker (R-PA), along with Senator J.D. Vance (R-OH), have called on President Biden to reverse the pause on liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports. These lawmakers, who all represent natural gas producing regions, believe that the pause on LNG exports is detrimental to the economy and national security of the United States.

In a letter addressed to President Biden, the lawmakers emphasized the importance of a robust natural gas industry for stimulating investment, enhancing domestic manufacturing, and creating well-paying jobs across various sectors. They argued that LNG export projects are crucial for maintaining the economic "arsenal of democracy" during geopolitical incidents such as the war in Ukraine. By reversing the pause on LNG export applications, the United States can ensure its continued prosperity and energy dominance.

The lawmakers also highlighted the significant role that natural gas exports play in the nation's economy and national security. The U.S. natural gas industry directly supports over 10 million American jobs and contributes nearly $1.8 trillion annually to the U.S. gross domestic product. Withholding approvals for LNG exports not only hinders economic growth but also forces nations around the world to rely on potentially unstable and adversarial suppliers. This, in turn, provides an opportunity for bad actors to use energy as a geopolitical weapon, posing a threat to the national security of the United States and its global partners.

In their letter, the lawmakers urged the White House to swiftly reconsider its decision and lift the pause on LNG exports. They emphasized that this reversal is not only a strategic imperative but also an economic necessity for the continued prosperity and security of the nation.

The call to reverse the pause on LNG exports comes at a critical time when the United States is seeking to maintain its position as a global energy leader. By allowing LNG exports to proceed, the United States can continue to support its allies and partners worldwide while bolstering its own economic growth and national security.

The full letter can be read here.