Americans Want More American Energy, Not Flawed Schemes from Democrats that Do Nothing to Lower Gas Prices

Congressman John Boehner
June 24, 2008

Congressman John Boehner (R-West Chester) today issued the following statement on the Democrats’ price gouging legislation, which will produce no new energy and do nothing to address soaring gas prices in America:

Since Democrats took control of Congress the price at the pump has increased 75 percent and the American people are fed up, yet this Democrat-controlled Congress has refused to schedule votes on meaningful solutions that will help make a difference. To be clear: price-gouging is illegal and Republicans firmly believe those who break the law should be punished, but this bill will do nothing to help lower gas prices. We need an all of the above energy policy that includes renewables, increased conservation, more emphasis on nuclear energy, and increased domestic production of oil and gas. This bill has no purpose except to provide political cover to Democrats who continue to defy the will of the American people by blocking legislation to increase the supply of American energy.

Congress should not adjourn for the Independence Day recess without voting on comprehensive energy policies that will actually help lower prices at the pump. If Democrats are truly serious about addressing the energy crisis, they would join Republicans in supporting these policies so we can finally provide the relief that American working families and small businesses deserve.

Boehner represents Ohios 8th District, which includes all of Darke, Miami and Preble counties, most of Butler and Mercer counties, and the northeastern corner of Montgomery County. He was first elected to Congress in 1990.