Delaware County Review

Congressman Troy Balderson of Ohio strongly criticized President Biden's decision to ban future liquefied natural gas (LNG) export projects, arguing that it would have dire consequences for the stability and affordability of natural gas within the United States. In a speech delivered on the House Floor, Balderson expressed concern about the detrimental effects of this decision on the American economy, job market, and the country's relationships with its allies.

Balderson emphasized that natural gas has played a crucial role in reducing carbon emissions in the United States over the past two decades. He questioned the reasoning behind President Biden's decision, stating, "Claiming that this decision is based solely on protecting the environment is just absurd. Because of natural gas, the United States has reduced our emissions more than any country in the world over the last 20 years."

The congressman also highlighted the negative impact of the ban on U.S. allies, particularly in Europe. He noted that these countries have been actively transitioning away from Russian energy by importing clean American LNG. Balderson argued that the ban would only serve to empower Russia and undermine the efforts of American allies to diversify their energy sources.

Balderson's concerns were echoed by more than 150 House Republicans who signed a letter to President Biden calling for an end to the LNG export ban. The congressman's speech on the House Floor was part of a larger effort by the Energy and Commerce Committee to examine how the ban would harm America's energy and economic security.

In conclusion, Balderson criticized President Biden's decision as a political one that would prioritize appeasing radical climate activists over the interests of American workers, consumers, and international allies. He stated, "Simply put, by freezing new LNG export permits, the President is putting election year politics ahead of the interests of American workers, consumers, and our allies abroad."

The ban on new LNG export projects announced by President Biden has sparked significant backlash from Congressman Balderson and his Republican colleagues. They argue that the decision will have far-reaching negative consequences for the United States, including undermining the stability and affordability of natural gas, hurting the American economy and jobs, and strengthening adversaries.